“Look at all the life in this," she said. "Every pip could become a tree, and every tree could bear another hundred fruits and every fruit could bear another hundred trees. And so on to infinity." — David Almond, Skellig

On the last day of school before Christmas vacation, a very kind and very cleaver educator sent me one of the most considerate gifts that I have ever received — a pomegranate. He explained that the pomegranate or punica granatum is symbolic in many cultures, representing prosperity, ambition, abundance, and good luck — all lovely gifts for the new year. He spoke of the health benefits of this "frickin' delicious" fruit as well as the effort required to harvest its seeds: “If you have never taken the time to break down a pomegranate, you’re in for a treat (and an arduous task). But the manner in which the seeds are so tightly packed and delicately protected is a true natural marvel. Kind of like every day we get to be alive on this planet. May your pom have 365+ seeds to cover you for each day this next year! May your 2021 be the best rebound year you could have ever imagined. And may every little sweet, tart, delicious seed you harvest represent a beautiful day or memory in the year to come.” What a generous gift and, as my friend suggests, “If each seed is one of happiness for you, perhaps you may bring happiness to others. And this connected happiness becomes joy for everyone!”

The final aspect of this wonderful present was a challenge to document the process of harvesting the seeds and to share my photos. "The shared images of hilarity, frustration, and fun could (selfishly) end up being the best part of this gift. It is likely you will be left with deep red juice on the counter, the floor, your shirt, your hands, just about everywhere. And that’s part of the messy journey. The fruits of your labor are the result of your work. Lean into the process so you can enjoy the product. But don’t ever forget that the process is how you got there.”

In the final weeks of December, I always take time to reflect on the past year and to "plan" for the new by choosing one word to guide my thoughts and observations. In 2019, my word was "wonder." In 2020, I chose "focus." Thanks to my cleaver friend, my somewhat enigmatic word for 2021 is "pomegranate."

May 2021 be a year …

of good health -- In contrast to 2020, may the new year be one of healing of bodies, minds, and hearts.
of potential -- In 2021, I will strive to contribute, to create, to make (or to quote my alma mater "to be") the difference.
of abundance -- May we all recognize the abundance of blessings, hope, and joy, and inspiration in the ordinary and the extraordinary.

And I promise to document “the messy journey.”