Every few years I like to revisit the law of the harvest because it is such an important law we learn in gardening that applies to all aspects of life. Simply stated it is “we harvest what we plant.” But gardeners know it is much more than that, because there are many steps necessary between planting and harvest. Farmers and ranchers learn this law best because it is in front of them every day. Some people never learn this law and flounder through life.
Employers quickly learn which employees have learned these principles of responsibility and consistent effort. Those who are consistently on time and ready to go to work have learned. Those who have not learned are unreliably late or absent. They have difficulty holding a job and tend to blame others for their lack of success at work and all aspects of life.
I learned that the best way to teach children this law was to give them a small planting area which was completely theirs. I would help and advise, but leave the decisions and responsibility to the child. If the child became discouraged by weeds, I would work beside him to help (but not do it for him). And if they fail? Well they have learned from failure also. And it is time to try again with something else.
Another application of these principles is in marriage. Marriages require regular care and light from each partner to develop a happy relationship. The weeds of argument, infidelity, inattention and lack of communication can destroy a marriage. Nutrients like smiles, hugs, concern and thoughtful acts will also make a marriage thrive.
Parents, teachers and employers who teach this law by putting individuals in charge of an area of responsibility and giving them encouragement along the way not only creates individual success but helps the whole organization succeed as well.
