Valentine's Day and Gardening

Most people probably don't think of gardening when they think of Valentine's Day.  Judging by the immense amount of commercials, billboards, and sale fliers that started to circulate well before this month, most people think of what to buy to prove their love. But what does that really prove?  To some, quite a lot.  To others, maybe not so much.  To some, a bought item does mean love.  To others, a simple, kind word can mean more than any box of chocolates.  Even still, others may need physical connection, like a good hug, to understand that they are cared about.  Whatever the way, we need to make sure we are giving love and being an example of it in the correct ways- and every day, not just today.

So by now, Craig is wondering why I'm not talking about gardening on our gardening blog.  Well, I am!  When we plant a garden, or an orchard, or even just one little flower, do we expect to get fruits or flowers by ignoring that plant, speaking badly to it, or hurting it?  Of course not!  We pay attention to our plant friends- if they need water, we give them water, not more dirt.  If they need nutrients, we give them the right nutrients, not just a shot of miracle grow.  If they need more light, less light, whatever the case may be, we give our plants what they want and require for beauty and bounty. 

What if we cared for each person in our lives like we do our plants?  What if every day we made sure that the people we love are given, from our hearts, exactly what they need to feel most loved?  I think the world would be a much different place.  Its not what we can purchase on a special day of the year that spreads love and gratitude to those around us.  It's how we nurture them and love them daily that allows our relationships to bloom.