meh Begone
How nice is it to have something green and growing in our environment, especially during these drab, end-of-winter days when we think Spring will never arrive?
I really do try, but my long term relationship with houseplants is rocky at best. Right now, I have three that are doing great-to-okay. The “just okay” one is hanging on until it can go back outside in the warm weather. Both the plant and I are praying for warm weather soon…
Each plant needs a certain amount of care. The amount of water I provide runs the gamut from over to under-watering. Feeding can be hit or miss. Prime plant locations in my house are limited. Luckily, each plant has a way of letting me know when it’s time for pot rotation intervention – A/K/A time to give the other side of the plant a turn in the sunlight.
Sadly, the routine I just described places me in the meh category of plant parenting. I love the green and growing plants when they are fresh and new and by nature hardy. But my long-term commitment to care can leave much to be desired by my leafy friends. After a while, I just don’t care enough to achieve the desired result.
Even this early in Lent 2022 I am praying that a dreaded meh attitude does not creep into my daily aspirations. My hope is that I want to progress in how I nurture myself and others by my turning toward the Light of Christ. To this end, my three intrepid houseplants will be a visual reminder to keep focused on my Lenten journey and to avoid indifference.
Did you know there are many, many categories of houseplants? Which ones might I need to emulate to keep on target this Lent?
Succulent – can I pray for more of God’s graces so I have a reserve like succulent plants store water?
Flowering – in what ways can I add color and beauty to my surroundings? How can I bring joy to others?
Easy & low light – how can I be more low maintenance, satisfied without a lot of “stuff” or extra attention?
Trailing and Climbing Plants – where am I called to switch things up? I need to ask for His wisdom to recognize when to be a follower and when I should lead.
Unusual plants – do I accept and welcome those that don’t fit my definition of the norm? Can I ask for more grace to set my own course and worry less about what others might think of me?
Happy growing. Blessings on your Lenten journeys.