Plant a flower
Seeds take root in many ways. When I wrote Seedlings, I was impassioned about sharing my relationship stories. The response has been extremely heartwarming. Readers have taken ideas or quotes from the book as a seed for a decision they’ve made about their relationships.
I’d like to share a guest blog from my good friend and Toastmasters colleague Barb Hildenbrand. She generously agreed to share her Roadrunners Toastmasters speech:
“Good Morning. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said. ‘Earth laughs in flowers.’ I ran into this quote after I had already decided on the theme for this week—and it fit perfectly. March 12th of each year is “Plant A Flower Day”—not only in the US, but also around the world.
When I drive down the streets of Tucson, and I see the bright yellow and orange African daisies playing in the front of so many homes and businesses…I just have to smile. They look so happy and they do look as if they are playing. I just love them!
I also got to thinking about how this plays out with others—in relationships if I may borrow a theme from our resident author, Ethel. When a man is in trouble with his gal… what does he do? Sends or brings her flowers. When someone celebrates the life of a friend or loved one who has passed… they bring flowers. If you want to show someone they are special to you…you give them a flower. There have even been “meanings” given to certain flowers. Of course we know a red rose means “I love you.” A daffodil means “You are the only one.” If someone gives you a geranium—well, that represents folly or stupidity. Grass indicates submission…makes sense; you walk on it. A nasturtium is a flower of patriotism, conquest, or victory in battle.
I enjoy gardening, but I also love making people happy or adding value to their lives. We can all do this by virtually planting flowers in their lives. Just bring a little joy to others and you will enjoy watching your garden grow, so… plant a flower today.”
Sincere thanks to Barb. What will be in your garden today? What ‘flower’ can you plant?
