We're planting today. The feeling of permanence builds with each tree placed in the earth. John Tanner has an amazing essay entitle "As For Years" that mentions a verse in the LDS Doctrine and Covenants 51:17 that states "as for years" that resonates with me. At the time the revelation was recorded, there was a group of believers that were compelled to move to a new location. They were not sure how long they would be there and were looking for direction of how to proceed. The response was:
"I consecrate unto them this land for a little season, until I, the Lord, shall provide for them otherwise, and command them to go hence; the hour and the day is not given unto them, wherefore let them act upon this and as for years."
No council seems more applicable today to me and my family. I don't know how long we will be here--but I am going to act as if it will be years. I don't want to waste time getting started. I have so much less time now than the last time I was planting trees--and so we are planting today--or I should say my son is planting today. While I make phone calls for work, he is digging the soil. The trees are soaking preparing for the transplant. Soon, the orchards will be nearly complete. Navels, grapefruit, lemon, lime, and tangelo will be in the citrus orchard, and fig, Asian pear, peach, nectarine, and plum will round off the other orchard.
With each tree purchased and each hole dug, I feel more stable and secure. I am beginning to understand why this instruction was given to these people who would only actually stay for 6 months. The stability is built from creating the stable environment. No reason to ever waste time biding your time in boxes. Live life to the fullest today. Put down roots that someone else may enjoy after you leave. Create beauty today. The joy is in the creation.
So today I am living "as for years."
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