From “Plant Killer” to “Plant Parent” (Sort Of)
Let’s be honest, my thumbs have never been particularly green. In fact, I’m pretty sure they’ve edged closer to brown over the years. I’m the person who could kill a cactus in a desert. So, naturally, when my well-meaning friend gifted me a houseplant, I accepted with a mixture of terror and forced enthusiasm.
“Don’t worry,” she said, sensing my apprehension. “It’s practically impossible to kill.”
Famous last words, right? But, against all odds, that little green sprig not only survived under my care but thrived. And in the process, it taught me a thing or two about life that I never expected.
But my well-intentioned friend had also given me a crash course in Plant Parenting 101. And one of the key takeaways was the importance of patience. Plants, she explained, grow on their own time.
So, I watered, I fertilized, and I waited. And slowly but surely, I started to notice new growth. Tiny, green shoots pushing through the soil. It wasn’t instant, but it was progress. And it dawned on me that maybe, just maybe, some of the best things in life take time to cultivate.
Lesson #2: We All Need Support to Thrive
As my plant grew taller, I noticed it started to lean precariously towards the sunlight streaming through my living room window. It was like watching a slow-motion race to see if it would reach the window before toppling over entirely.
Clearly, my little plant needed support. So, I invested in a cute, little moss pole and gently coaxed its spindly stems to cling on. And wouldn’t you know it, my plant stood tall and proud.
It was a poignant reminder that we all need a little support sometimes, whether it comes in the form of a moss pole, a shoulder to cry on, or a good therapist. And just like my plant thrived with access to sunshine, we all need those moments of joy and connection that nourish our souls.