I am a lousy gardener. For years I have struggled to pull the weeds from my spirit and provide enough water for my soul. Often I have failed to do either, resulting in an overgrowth of the qualities I so desperately wanted to avoid. I will also admit that for years I neglected my garden by not clearing away the dead attributes and the quirky traits that rise up from nowhere to grow loose and free.  In short, I have failed to provide the nutrients required for my garden to bloom in full glory. As a result, my garden withered and died on the vine.

Last year, I decided to revisit my garden and instead of just haphazardly scattering random seeds; I have been busy designing my garden to make it the best it can be.These days, I contemplate the light my new seedlings are getting in an attempt to give them the best possible chance to root and take hold. I plan which virtues that I want to plant and put them in a place that exposes them to the elements necessary to develop into hearty and generous traits. I water with patience and love not expecting much but grateful for what flowers. I graft the best of what I am with rootstock that expands the possibilities to nurture healthy growth and well being. Today, I take care of my garden and it shows.

These days I realize the importance of growing my garden free from the pesticides of negativity and ill-will. I recognize the importance of taking the time to meditate within my garden to stimulate growth. And now I prune carefully to let the sun shine deep within its soul. My garden may not yet be perfect but it is now a reflection of the things I value and hold dear and for me that is enough. Because now I see my garden as something beautiful, no matter what the season, and I am proud of all the hard work that went into making it a true reflection of me. I am my own garden…as it should be.