One of the best things about creating a sustainable project that benefits others is the experience of what happens afterward. All manner of people and resources show up to help with its continued development and improvement, and it grows. It’s organic. Just like planting an acorn sprouts into a little seedling and then over time turns into a mighty oak.
One of my other favorite images from nature that depicts this process is this one:
The picture also demonstrates the principle of precession — the effect of bodies in motion on other bodies in motion. Getting into action sends ripples through the universe that spread out and impact other things and people.
Often those ripples come back in the form of new opportunities or information that lets you know you’re on the right track moving in the direction you’re going. You have to attune yourself to it, but they are there and you’ll see/hear/feel them if you do.
For my own example, I often marvel at what has happened since we decided to collaborate with the Seneca County Park District to create the Garlo Heritage Nature Preserve (GHNP).
A lot had to happen to create it. The park district had to be formed, which took a lot of steps and activities, and we had to decide on the best vehicle for conveying the property, the timing, structuring, deed restrictions and financing, tax implications, etc., etc. Both parties had to get their own advisors and make any number of decisions, but in the end it came together.
Then others decided to follow the example an another nature preserve was formed in the park district. Then another and another. Grants became available and we were able to convey more land to expand the size of GHNP so equestrian trails could be added and parking for horse trailers could be built.
An article was recently published in the local newspaper, the Advertiser Tribune, online edition, showing what the original collaboration has developed into. Going into our 10th anniversary of the original acts that created the GNHP, it is mighty gratifying to see the ripple effect that has been produced.
That all happened as a result of many people showing up to add to the original contribution with their own, to build something much greater than any of us could have done on our own. There is great joy in that.
What act will begin your ripple effect?