Life’s A Garden

“Amazing! Just amazing,” I thought as my eyes roamed over the lush vegetables, splashes of flowers, aromatic herbs, and fruit trees in their circle of beds. Only a year ago, standing in the same place, I looked over a harsh beaten earth, a former Pony Club ground I believe, fringed by weeds, neglected, unloved and seemingly without potential.

Over the years the ground had been stomped into submission, every attempt to grow crushed by man, machine and beast. Eventually it gave up, resigned to fate, and not even the refreshing rain and nurturing sunshine could coax a smile.  It was so beaten that even when left alone for months, then years, it hadn’t the spirit to reclaim itself.

Those passing by, if they even noticed the barrenness, dismissed it as unredeemable, without potential for anything other than what it had been before.  Without serving that purpose, it seen as worthless, simply a wasteland.  And then someone looked with fresh eyes, saw past the barrenness and had a vision of what could be possible, with loving care.

Time, effort, passion and belief was poured into the land, coaxing it back to life.  It was a slow gentle process at first, relaying the foundations of growth.  Rushing to plant would have led to poor results, patience and healing was needed, and the results show. 

It’s been a learning experience for all involved, at times frustrating, but the faith in its potential keep all going, despite the set backs. It was important not to give too much, nor hold back when more was needed, to listen and be flexible.  There was acceptance of the change of seasons, uneven growth cycles and at times failure to thrive. Correct care ensured healthy growth which could resist the passing bugs.  Less than perfectly shaped produce didn’t mean less flavour.

The gardeners soon learnt it was easier to make the time to pull out the weeds as they appeared, rather than put it off until the weeds had put down deep roots and spread seeds throughout the garden.  Now they reap rich rewards, enjoying the beauty and  sustenance, the satisfaction of a job well done, and the pleasure of connection.  Many more now benefit.  

All because someone saw beyond the surface and believed in the potential…then took action.

 o