We’ve all heard the saying, “Stop and smell the roses.” But what about, “Stop and appreciate the resilience of your seemingly-dead-but-actually-just-thirsty spider plant?” Okay, maybe that one doesn’t roll off the tongue as easily, but it holds a special place in my heart. You see, I, a self-proclaimed plant killer, accidentally stumbled upon some profound life lessons thanks to my surprisingly resilient houseplant, Herbert.
My Brown Thumb Gets a Green Roommate
Herbert entered my life as a birthday gift from my well-meaning friend, Sarah. Sarah, a walking, talking plant encyclopedia, thought a little green friend was all I needed to add some zen to my chaotic life. I, on the other hand, was convinced Herbert was destined to join the graveyard of succulents and ferns that had met their untimely demise under my care.
And for a while, it seemed like I was right. Herbert, a peace lily known for its air-purifying abilities (and dramatic drooping when thirsty), started turning an alarming shade of yellow. I panicked, overwatered, underwatered, and even resorted to sticking him in the shower, hoping a tropical rainstorm simulation would do the trick.
Lesson #2: Growth Takes Time (and a Little Bit of Mess)
As Herbert thrived, I started noticing other life lessons hidden in his leafy existence. I learned that growth, like life, isn’t always linear. Some days, Herbert sprouted new leaves with gusto, reaching for the sky. Other days, he seemed content to just sit there, soaking up the sun. And you know what? That was perfectly okay.
There were also times when Herbert, despite my best efforts, would shed a leaf or two. I learned to see these not as failures, but as natural parts of the growth cycle. After all, even plants need to let go of the old to make way for the new.