I try to put a little time into my garden each day, especially in the summer time. It's such a reflection for growing. I've learned some things from my garden that I can transfer to other areas of life. Maybe thinking about some of these will help you get through the some of the hard or discouraging stuff we all have to face.
1] You gotta plant things where they'll thrive. You have to know who you are and what kind of environment you'll thrive in. There are some general guidelines that hold true: we all need love and encouragement, the right balance of warmth, and also mental and spiritual inspiration. Make sure you surround yourself with people and ideas that lift you and bring out your best.
2] Not everything you plant will make it. Sometimes you plant something you think is hearty and strong, you nurture it and water it, and it still doesn't take. That's okay. The plants that don't make it can be recycled to the compost bin and then you can replant something else wonderful. When something doesn't work you don't give up on your garden. Some trees need to be cared for and watered carefully when they're young but will live the rest of their lives in strength and bearing fruit! Don't be discouraged by failure, try again until you find what works for you.
3] Everything has its season. Some veggies and fruits ripen in the summer and some, like citrus, in the winter. Fig trees bear fruit in the summer but the figs don't ripen all at once, they come a few more each day for their season. Irises have a short season. They bloom and they're done. Ice plants will give you new flowers all summer long. They're all good.They all contribute to the beauty of the garden. One summer I planted some flowers in the same sun, same patch of soil and they all got the same water but some bloomed really fast and others weeks later. Don't judge yourself by comparing your progress with others and don't judge yourself that you're not blooming fast enough.
4] Plant for all the seasons. If you plan your garden well, you'll have something to enjoy all year round. I learned this from watching a garden in a home we bought that a master gardener planted. Every few weeks something new bloomed or flourished or bore fruit. All of life's seasons have some gifts to offer, so look for the good.
5] A plant is itself and nothing else. A walnut grows into a walnut tree, and a tomato seed grows into a tomato. Don't try to be something you're not or put yourself down for being different. Your very self, your soul, is perfectly formed to be YOU. At the same time, it's okay to struggle as you break through to blossom and grow. Shine in who you are with all your talents, strengths, and heart's desires.
6] Each tree, flower, fruit or veggie gives! All plants give in one way or another just by being what they are meant to be and growing. They nourish our bodies or our senses in one way or another. They are all good. Simple or large, you live your highest purpose by sharing your gifts and talents in your world.
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