A Love Letter to Freshly Cut Grass
An Encomium about Grass
New beginnings and fresh starts, a measurement of growth and room for more growth, are symbolized in the very make up of every molecule of every blade of grass. Grass is cut, clipped, and trimmed so cohesively, sometimes in pattern, for the satisfaction of our senses. A unexpected, unseen, inspiring pep talk beckons me as I pass freshly cut grass, and follows me with a fragrance that rejuvenates my soul. Every blade speaks life into the steps I take, as I walk alongside a newly manicured lawn. There is a pep talk that soaks within the soil that the grass is rooted in, one that tells me life is good, that the grass is always greener right where I am standing, that there is room to grow and a standard to maintain. The awakened emerald carpet represents an image of life. The manmade lawnmower trimming the grass may, to the pessimistic eye, look as though opportunity for growth is stifled, cut short by a motorized machine, when in fact, this represents that of a haircut; a mid-day haircut before a dinner date, vacation, or job interview. It represents hope, newness, a fresh start.
Freshly cut grass is revitalizing and revolutionary. It proves that progress and growth was once made, and can be made again. Grass brings unruly growth and then welcomes a means of being refined. Grass satisfies the senses, especially when newly mowed grass graces my daily paths. Not only is freshly cut grass appealing to the human eye from its beautiful green color and splendor, but it appeals to the sense of touch, through its soft and welcoming texture, which once was untamed.
It offers space for a romantic stroll or a Friday night football game. It offers a place for games of tag and skinned knees. Perhaps most importantly, the aroma of a mowed lawn in the morning, drizzled with dew, dances throughout my nostrils revealing a scent of fresh watermelon and crisp air. The scent of grass in many facets tickles my nose and just begs for a deep breath of fresh air. The scent asks for it to be breathed in, experienced, appreciated.
Droplets of mist after a soft summer rain rest gracefully upon each blade of grass, and in the morning the scent is pure delight. Not only is the essence of this sight and scent remarkably relaxing, but I believe it represents a moment of meditation, brought by God to slow me down and remind me of thankfulness and the sweetness of life. The dewy mornings atop green lawns reveal a scent so sweet. One of the best surprises is driving beyond Tennessee farmland and hills on an early morning commute. My windows are usually down and the radio just loud enough to cover the mull of the engine.
Accompanying the wind, the scent of cut grass wraps around me. I look to see its source and notice a man, usually in plaid and a ball cap, mowing his acres, and I wonder for a moment if it is wrong for me to enjoy simple joys of the smell of grass at the expense of his hard work, but then hope he enjoys, too and is reminded of the growth and sweetness that grass, and his work, represents. The sight, the feel, the smell of freshly cut grass reminds me of the summer sun and warm breezes, family gatherings and happy memories. Grass has a universal attraction that is pleasant for a picnic or baseball game, a backyard barbecue or dogs at a park. Grass is kids kicking soccer balls in August and graduation ceremonies at sunset. It is for rolling down hills and cloud watching. Grass is a pasture of horses and Wimbledon tennis matches. Grass is natural in essence and necessary in existence. It acknowledges life and accompanies our own.
Grass is home for many. It is the ants’ kingdom, the farmer’s wellbeing. It is home to lost quarters from pockets and divots from golf swings. It is home to dandelions and grasshoppers. Freshly cut grass represents life. There is a world nestled among its blades, one too small for us to fit or understand. From an ants’ perspective, a lawn of grass is as vast and thick and coarse as the amazon jungle. For this, grass supersedes us; it is greater than ourselves and more intricate. Grass is the acceptance of growth and the willingness to start again. The freshness of cut grass surpasses our understanding, enjoyment, and satisfaction. It is not one to be analyzed, but to just simply be. It holds a power in simplicity that we do not understand; yet we can enjoy its amenities. Next time you walk through a field of cool, wet, green grass take a moment to breathe it in, and tell me what you feel.
