Let it grow and let it be

We have a beautiful Rose of Sharon bush in our front yard. It blooms and blooms throughout the summer months. I can enjoy the splendor when I’m in my living room looking out the window. The cats enjoy it too as the colorful display attracts butterflies, bees, birds and especially hummingbirds.

This morning I was laying on the couch with a cat on my lap and a cup of tea leisurely beginning my day and enjoying nature right outside the window. I remembered how well over 20 years ago I almost passed by that Rose of Sharon in its little pot at a flea market. It was the end of the day and the vendor wanted to clear out his inventory. He called out as I passed, $15 for this plant.

At the time I was really into planting a garden, a novice who had no idea this 2 foot tall plant would someday bloom to almost 2 stories high! But I did recognize a bargain, so I brought the little plant home. I planted it, watered generously and let it be.

This plant has done so well all on its own — through all kinds of weather, all kinds of storms, it continues to bloom it’s little heart out and provide joy and nourishment to many species.

It’s a reminder to me about letting things be . . . and not trying to control everything in my life. It is a miracle of nature how we all not only survive, but thrive, all on our own. Even when we think we must do more, be more, we are truly thriving just being.