The flooding started shortly after I arrived. It was odd to see the water slowly rise all through the surrounding pecan orchard.
“Flood irrigation” she said. “They gradually flood the entire orchard floor, and it slowly and deeply waters the roots of the trees. It’s a very old farming technique.”
I’m fascinated by how much I don’t know. Flooding on purpose. As the days pass, I see the water level rising and reaching far and wide throughout the entire perimeter of the retreat center.
I wonder if this flooding helps me understand some of the deeply traumatic seasons of my life. I have felt the weight of flooding. Flooding that felt like drowning. So much on me, a flood of needs amid true lack. Desperate moments alone. I have seen hard things. Things you’re not supposed to see. Things you never share with anyone because the reality is too real.
The deep flooding provides a consistent watering. An odd modality of nourishment. I don’t think I like it, but as I continue to think on this “very old farming technique” of irrigation I begin to understand how the flooding in my life has led to this deep consistent experience of nourishment at my roots. I still don’t like it, but I understand it. And I’ve learned that God knows exactly how much flooding I can endure, and how much flooding I need.
As I walk around the grounds, I see the water almost reach the road. Along the surface of the ground, I notice small plants also benefiting from the flooding. Small patches of green proudly poke up through the water. It makes me think on those who have watched me struggle through my own flooding and have taken courage.
Near me I can see into the water, it is a bit muddy and small bits of nature float along. Yet in the distance the flood water takes on a clean shimmer, almost blue. A smooth blue shine, a glassy surface of light blue.
Blue? I think, why blue amid the vivid green trees with their strong brownish trunks. Then I see that the blue is reflection of the sky. The water reflects the heavens. My heart is lighter, I take moment to thank God for the flooding I’ve experienced, and I rest in the message of life around me.