sexually) to a food supply, and even a means of transport, such as the dandelion's parachute, or the maple's whirling wing.  All of it is meant to ensure survival.  Microscopic seeds contain everything they need to sprout, grow, compete for space, mate and reproduce.  The resulting seeds may sprout to provide the next generation, or lay dormant for up to a few thousand years before sprouting with life.

It's astounding to think that seeds that were gathered back when man was just beginning to understand and apply farming techniques--seed touched by hands four thousand years ago--have sprouted and yielded not only a crop, but a glimpse into the past. 

I first became acquainted with the wonder of seeds as a child.  I watched my mother plant asparagus seed for our backyard vegetable garden one year.  She must have explained to me that there was an easier way to grow asparagus, because I remember understanding there was something special about planting those seeds.  It was a hope and faith that those tiny seeds would grow and give us a crop.  And a lesson in patience, as they took years to establish.

Several years later, at the age of twelve, I tromped out to the back acre of our new home.  There was no garden, and I was determined to fix what I saw as a problem.

Next month:  Part 2: Infinity