My dad immigrated to our country when he was around 11 years old. Growing up on a farm, he knew a thing or two about planting. From as early as I can remember, my dad always had a flourishing garden. I would follow him around, eating tomatoes and string beans right off the vine. His ability to grow an abundance of vegetables felt magical to me.
In his later years, he moved to the city of Yonkers, where he had just a tiny plot of land. Yet, he continued to amaze me by creating his garden in planter boxes and pots. He had a ‘green thumb,’ and I did not!
In fact, for many years, I struggled to keep even my houseplants alive. Lately, however, I have been having great success—something I attribute mostly to my home having lots of windows. My plants enjoy a ‘greenhouse’ environment, and they are flourishing.
Recently, I realized that all my plants were bursting out of their pots. They needed space.
As I repotted the plants, I was struck by the thought of how we, as humans, also need to be ‘repotted’ to have more space to grow and flourish.
For us, a bigger pot or vessel is accessed through prayer and meditation. These practices help us forgive, release fear, and create space in our hearts and minds for a fresh perspective.
As I scooped up and mixed in new soil, I thought about how we often need extra support to grow our roots in a healthy way. This comes by surrounding our life with good choices and a supportive community.
Finally, as I watered the newly repotted plants, I reflected on how important a daily practice of positive affirmations, prayer, meditation, and kindness—both to ourselves and others—is for our growth.
Be sure to give yourself room to grow and bloom where you are planted.
“They shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever they do shall prosper.” Psalm 1;3
Making Space
