For weeks, I showered my leafy roommate with attention. I watered it religiously, sang to it (don’t judge), and even invested in a plant app that told me its astrological sign (apparently, it’s a Capricorn, which explained the stoicism). Despite my best efforts, the plant began to wilt. Leaves drooped, its vibrant green faded, and it looked about as lively as a disco after the music stopped.

Devastated, I confessed my failure to another friend, a plant whisperer of sorts. She surveyed the scene, a mixture of amusement and pity on her face. “You’re overwatering it,” she declared. “Sometimes, holding back is the best form of care.” Turns out, even plants need some space to breathe. Who knew?

I learned that sometimes, tough love is necessary, even in the plant world. It’s about recognizing when to step back, give space, and let things naturally unfold. Just like in relationships, smothering someone with attention, even with good intentions, can be detrimental.

Lesson #2: Resilience is About Thriving, Not Just Surviving

After my crash course in plant parenting, I adopted a more hands-off approach. I watered sparingly, let the sun do its thing, and even resisted the urge to check its astrological chart every five minutes. And guess what? My little green companion perked up. It sprouted new leaves, regained its vibrant hue, and even seemed to stand a little taller. It was a fighter, that much was clear.