The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned From a Houseplant



We’ve all heard the saying, “stop and smell the roses.” But what about “stop and appreciate the resilience of your spider plant”? Okay, maybe that doesn’t roll off the tongue as easily, but hear me out. You see, I recently learned that wisdom can sprout from the most unexpected places – like the humble houseplant sitting on my windowsill.

A Brown Thumb Turns Green (Sort Of)

I’ve never been particularly gifted in the plant-parenting department. My thumbs are less than green – more like a pale, hesitant yellow. So, when my well-intentioned friend gifted me a peace lily for my birthday, I accepted it with a mix of gratitude and trepidation. This little plant, with its vibrant green leaves and promise of tranquility, was now my responsibility.

plant when a little voice in my head (okay, it was probably my more botanically-inclined roommate) said, “Just give it some water! It might surprise you.”

Lesson #1: Resilience is More Than Just a Buzzword

Skeptical but hopeful, I gave my neglected peace lily a good soak. To my utter astonishment, within a day, it was perky and vibrant again. This little plant, left for dead in my care, had bounced back with more enthusiasm than a puppy at a dog park. It was a powerful reminder that even when we feel wilted and worn down, a little bit of care and attention can work wonders. Just like my resilient peace lily, we all have the potential to bounce back from setbacks – sometimes, we just need a little “water” in the form of self-care, support, or a good pep talk.

Lesson #2: Growth Takes Time (and Patience)

As my peace lily thrived, I decided to get a little adventurous. I bought a spider plant, enticed by its air-purifying qualities and the promise of adorable baby spiderettes. I imagined a lush, cascading plant gracing my bookshelf, filling my home with fresh air and good vibes. But there was one small problem – spider plants don’t magically transform into verdant waterfalls overnight.