For a people who sustained themselves on their own produce, the multitude of rocks strewn throughout their farmland made no sense. Even amateur gardeners know that rocks impede root formation in plants.
Yet the ancient tribe of Anastasi Indians who, centuries ago, inhabited the now desolate Easter Island, learned to grow their food amidst rocky soil. To make matters more confusing scientists recently discovered that the Anastasi could have easily removed the rocks. They didn’t just tolerate the rocks–they farmed them.
In researching other semi-arid places like Easter island such as Chile and Peru, scientists discovered that in certain semi-arid regions rocky soil actually enhances plant growth.
Rocks as Fertilizer
The rocks, both large and small, absorb moisture and release it during times of intense heat and dryness. The rocks retain heat which provides warmth on cold nights, and they contain vital minerals and nutrients which fertilize plants when released. When the Anastasi began farming the rocks–moving, spreading and adjusting them, they reaped a 400% increase in crop yield.
Have you ever thought, “If only I could only overcome this sin, I’d really be holy” or “I would really be able to connect better with God if _______ (insert any struggle, adversity or wound) didn’t exist.”
Most people do. And they don’t stop with themselves. They carry over their spiritual perfectionism into the lives of others—especially young people.
Spiritual Perfectionism
In a desire to protect kids from themselves, others and life, many adults can act as though bearing Christian fruit only happens by eradicating from life’s soil all that is sinful, messy and painful. The sheer impossibility of that leaves many, once enthusiastic, hope filled adults feeling frustrated and discouraged.
Even worse, the youth who cannot attain such unrealistic perfection grow resentful at best or apathetic at worst. Young people know there is more to following Christ than vice eradication and smooth soil. If you come to them with that agenda youth will resist, run and rebel. And worse, they’ll lose respect for you and the faith you represent.
I don’t suggest turning a blind eye to the wounds, problems and other serious issues in the lives of young people. There are issues that merit immediate action. Outside of those, it is critical that we, like the ancient Anastasi, patiently work with and among the rocks which in time yield fruits of compassion, empathy and service.
Click here to learn five things you can do today to help youth grow and mature amidst their “rocks.”
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About Roy Petitfils
[...] moment. Prayer is the safest of places to bring our hurts, wounds and disappointments. It is a place where God seeks to reaffirm his love for us and lead us through the process of healing and [...]