I have grand aspirations of becoming an astute gardener, of knowing the plants, the vegetables, the flowers so intimately that I instinctively know what they need at any given moment, precious water, richer soil, more sun, more shade, a gentle caress, some loving words – all so they will be able to flourish magnificently. I am quite a long way off. My plants currently swing dramatically between too much or too little, never quite right, cycling through triage as I urgently determine what’s needed, constantly seeking the wisdom of family members and friends. Gardening knowledge is being retained by me at such a slow pace that it leaves me worried for my future ambition.
In the meantime, I have a plan, I will practice on myself – start closer to home and then apply my learning. Wait, what? I know, we always thought it went plant, puppy, person…
As it turns out, I am a head gardener, overseeing a very important plot – me, all aspects of me – I am responsible and accountable to create the kind of environment and conditions that support me to be my best. There’s an intimacy, a bond, a sacred commitment in honouring ourselves by being the fullest expression we can be – and by choosing this intention I have focus for my attention. Across my physical, mental and spiritual fitness, similar to the rhythms of nature, I need to be creating and maintaining the most relevant things for me at any moment in time and I also need to be removing, editing out those things that no longer serve me.
I’ll tell you what, it’s a tough gig, no holidays or overtime and plenty of learning opportunities (side note: love and compassion helps to enrich most soil). The best part continues to be how incredible it feels to know that there is someone committed to looking out for my best interests, even if that someone is me and even if I don’t always get it right. Best appointment I ever made.
Lots of love,
Jo x