It's difficult today to find subjects where we can all unite. But I think we can all agree on gardening. One would be hard pressed to debate the beauty of a field of poppies, the majesty of a single bloom such as the bloom of a Japanese Camellia 'Pink Perfection', or the warm feelings of constancy we get every fall when we see a local pumpkin patch. The feeling of the warm sun on your skin as you sit on your garden bench reading a good book while surrounded by amazing life is nothing short of wonderful. I don't think even the most citified individual could raise his nose to such a scene. I believe in this we are united.
But a garden such as this doesn't just happen. I think we can all agree that it takes work, and that it is good work for both mind and body. Many various statistics site that gardening relieves stress and brings great joy and peace to the mind. There is a great sense of accomplishment when you see your first blooms, taste the first juicy tomatoes of the season, or when you eliminate those pesky pests that are destroying your most prized roses. How about the joy it brings others? I for one enjoy very much when friends and family gather and make fond memories in such idyllic places. What about the calm and peace of gardening? Sometimes we need to just get away from it all and spend some quiet time with our thoughts. We can think clearly when we remove ourselves from the hectic and wearisome world. I believe we can all be united in this.
Then there are the amazing physical benefits of gardening. Even if you are in a city with a garden on top of your roof (there are some really cool ones), you will benefit from the fresh air flow. So much more if you live on the outskirts of the big cities and get out to work in your garden regularly. Oxygen helps blood flow. Blood flow helps remove toxins from the body. There are even some studies that oxygen helps with weight loss. Also, gardening is good for joint and muscle health. It may not seem like it at times when we get up after a long weeding session and feel it in our knees, etc. Even so, it is very good for working multiple muscles at a time, which also helps to keep our joints lubricated. I think we all want to be healthy and be able to take hikes or go on a bike ride (or whatever you fancy) with family or friends as long as we possibly can. On this I doubt many will not unite.
So gardening is a wonderful way to unite. Even if you don't have a garden, try to get to know someone who does, take part in a community garden, or take up container gardening. All are very satisfying. This is a good way to unite in a world that wants us all to be enemies or on one side or another. Because we have this one thing in common, I am pleased that here on this garden site we do not have to fight, we can let go of strife, and give what some in the world feel is impossible to give, forgiveness. We can all treat each other with respect and care, knowing we are united in a time honored tradition and life long pursuit. I raise my glass to all my fellow gardeners and gardener want-a-bees and say cheers friend!
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