As we approach Navaratri 2025, I’d like to share some reflections from last year’s planting of jau/barley. At the end of Navaratri 2024, I wrote down the lessons I learned from watching the jau grow day by day. Today, I’m bringing them to you, so as you plant your jau this year and watch it sprout, you’ll be reminded of the deeper truths it teaches us about life, growth, and resilience.
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As we celebrate Navaratri, a time of devotion and renewal, many of us engage in the tradition of planting jau/barley in soil and watching it grow. This simple act can offer profound insights into life and success. Here are some valuable lessons learned from nurturing jau:
Lesson 1: Faith
In our journey, we often encounter obstacles that make us doubt our path. While tending to the jau, I noticed what looked like mold forming on the sand's surface and considered replanting it, fearing it would hinder the growth. However, I chose to trust the process, and the jau thrived beautifully. This teaches us the importance of having faith, even when circumstances seem challenging.
Lesson 2: The Power of Prayer
On the fourth day, after a heartfelt prayer, I was amazed at how quickly the jau had grown. From tiny sprouts to noticeable height, this experience highlights the transformative power of prayer. It reminds us that our intentions can catalyze remarkable changes in our lives.
Lesson 3: Building a Solid Foundation
Just as the jau took time to develop strong roots before shooting up, we too must focus on laying a solid foundation for our endeavors. Growth may not always be visible at first, but beneath the surface, essential work is happening. Patience and perseverance in nurturing our roots will ultimately lead to exponential growth.
Lesson 4: Timing
Sometimes, growth can feel slow, but this often serves a purpose. It can protect our potential from external negativity or premature exposure. Once the right conditions are met, blessings can flow freely, much like the jau that flourished when the time was right.
Lesson 5: Space for Growth
The jau demonstrated that if we confine our blessings, they may struggle to thrive. I planted it in a very shallow dish, which limited its growth potential. In life, creating an environment that allows for expansion and exploration is essential. The key is to recognize when we need to provide more space for our aspirations to flourish.
Lesson 6: Nurturing Your Creations
Caring for what we create is crucial for growth. There were days when I forgot to water the jau, and it showed in its growth. Regular attention and care are vital for our projects, dreams, and relationships to thrive.
Lesson 7: The Value of Discretion
Not all efforts need to be showcased. I planted most of the seeds beneath a layer of soil, with only a few visible on the surface. This serves as a reminder that just because something isn’t immediately visible doesn’t mean it isn’t growing. Sometimes, keeping our endeavors discreet allows for authentic development away from scrutiny.
As you prepare to plant your jau this Navaratri, remember that this simple act holds powerful lessons about faith, patience, and nurturing your potential. Even if your jau doesn’t grow the way you hoped, see it as a reminder that every attempt is a chance to learn and try again. Growth often comes when we least expect it, so trust the process, embrace resilience, and never give up on your journey.