The Four Seasons

The season of SPRING is shown in the East and is represented by the sprouting of a seedling plant. The seedling needs the warmth of the spring sun and the goodness from the water to begin its growth process. Earthworms, beetles and assorted bugs are hard at work below the surface of the soil. The earth is the element represented by the direction, East. The star of the soil world is the earthworm, which eats mineral and organic matter that it grinds up in its gut. As the worm digs through the soil, it leaves channels, which increase soil aeration and drainage, and encourages deep rooting. Everyday, worms produce their own weight in worm casts, which are highly fertile, containing more nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and calcium than the surrounding soil. The earthworm has been called the intestines of the earth. The living soil is the digestive system of the earth, . transforming everything that returns to Mother Earth.

The season of SUMMER is in the South and is represented by nature in full bloom. The element of the South is fire and sun. The rainbow is the promise for the continued fertility of Mother Earth and the bounty of nature.

The season of AUTUMN is to the West. It is the time for reaping the harvest; as the apples on the tree indicate. Also it is the time for making preparations for winter and the storing of food. Notice the nuts the squirrels are gathering to store for winter. The picture shows the rabbit in his den. The holes help to aerate the soil and hold water. Autumn is the time when the leaves fall and the seeds and nuts are distributed. The leaves will decompose and provide nutrients for the soil. Autumn is the time for the snow geese to make their annual migration to the south. The element that represents the West is water, the lifeblood of Mother Earth.

The season of WINTER is in the North. This is the quiet time when the snow covers the earth like a blanket. The seeds rest over the winter in preparation for the growth that will take place in the springtime. In the North, the macro-organisms, as well as the micro-organisms, slow down their activity. The element for the North is air. The sacred circle of life goes on.

The Cycle of Life picture illustrates the interdependence, co-operation and co-existence that exist in the natural world. Everything in nature is connected and works together to maintain harmony and balance.