In June, I was mindlessly scrolling on social media when something caught my eye. Someone was giving away a small plant. This plant was in sad shape. Not from lack of trying, the owner explained how this little thing had only a few leaves left and that no matter what she tried, the little one kept losing her life and vitality. The garbage bin was her next destination unless someone wanted to give her a try.
So, of course, I smiled, sent the ad to my husband, and he picked her up. The plant was alive, small, tired, and well-watered but desperately needed ‘help .’ The first thing I did was give her a name. The anonymous little plant became Planty. So I sat her amongst other plants in the side garden, smiled at her, and left. I knew that she would adapt, supported by some of her own. And this is exactly what started to happen. At first, Planty lost almost all of her leaves. Someone else may have judged it better to throw her out, but I refused. I spent time around her, pruning the other plants and flowers. I invited and tamed Timmy, the chipmunk. He’s funny and jumps right by her every day. He makes us all laugh but never topples the plants. Planty ( I am sure of this fact ) senses his energy and probably smiles in her planty way. Planty thus began to trust her new environment and allowed herself to relax. A tiny leaf emerged from one of her thick roots the next day, a sign of hope and transformation.
As you read this, you are also part of Planty’s journey. A tiny leaf emerged from one of her thick roots the next day. Every day, I visit, speak to the plants, laugh with the chipmunk, and pay extra special attention to Planty. My son and husband (with some encouragement from me) also visit her and cheer her on. She now has a robust support system. She is well-nurtured so that her physical self can grow and become healthy. Most of all, Planty is loved. Every day, she is encouraged to become a more robust little plant. She is pruned and watered, and I take pictures of her because I have become so proud of her.
Just as plants need sunlight and water to thrive, humans also require love and care to grow and flourish. When we nurture plants with attention, they blossom and reach their full potential. Similarly, we can overcome challenges and grow into our best selves when we support and care for each other. It’s a beautiful reminder that plants and people can reach new heights with love and care. This story of Planty is a testament to the power of love and care in personal growth, inspiring us all to nurture and support each other on our journey to reaching our full potential.
The seasons have begun to shift. The days are getting shorter, and the nights are cooler. In a few weeks, when the time feels right, I will bring Planty to the Cabin room, where she will meet new plants. Some of her Summer roommates will make the journey inside as well, but we will bid goodbye to some of the annual flowers that graced our summer garden. There is no doubt that, once again, she will have to adjust to her new surroundings, but once again, with the right lighting, water, vitamins and love, she will continue to thrive in strength and beauty. I will keep you updated on her journey.
I wrote this as an analogy for our own lives. May you resonate with it – and see what happens when you are allowed to ‘grow,’ transform, and become who you are meant to be. Also, feel free to cheer Planty on becoming the most beautiful plant in the room. I believe in her – as she should.
Go, Planty, Go !
When we are seen, we begin to matter …
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