Surprise Learning

Greetings….
It has been a hot, humid, smokey summer. A couple of days ago, during a brief break in the valued afternoon rain, I ventured outside only to discover a wonderful surprise from the City - with the signage below.

I am grateful for this recognition. 
One of my favourite thrills in gardening is to acquire and restore distressed, perennial plants. Amidst this experience, I am reminded that it is all too easy to write off what may appear hopeless. I am also impressed that each of us is peculiarly located in the garden of life, and as we are tended in timely, appropriate ways, we grow and bloom with spectacular beauty. Moreover, our impact is ever intensified as a collective. 

Along this line, here are some enduring lessons or reminders that I have gleaned from these rescue efforts, and gardening in general: 
1. Life is a process
2. Respect and appreciate the seasons, and follow their rhythm 
3. Patience and kindness are among the greatest virtues
4. Variety is inherently beautiful
5. Pruning enhances health, wholeness, and fruitfulness
6. Stay open, flexible, adaptable, and resilient
7. Life brings us surprises in multiplied ways, and often with simplicity 
8. Good grounding and a balanced diet are essential for healthful living
9. Some things are beyond our control
10.We make a unique, positive difference as we freely share our gifts and talents. 
Good cheers.