We know what to do when life hands us lemons, but what about weeds, the invasive creatures that sprout up – all over yards, roads, gardens, driveways – wherever there's soil, space, and plenty of sunshine? What to do other than pull them out, along with our hair?
We can learn from them.
And make crowns.
Considered a pain in the ass and an eyesore to some, I've come to see weeds with a bit of reverence. Weeds are not just weeds; they are resilient little motherfuckers that thrive wherever they find themselves. They need very little to reach their potential but give them plentiful sunshine, and they shoot up and outward, living their best lives.
Their vitality is admirable, so instead of framing them as a nuisance, I'm taking notes on how to be.
Many weeds were growing on the land, and in the cracks around the first house we rented when we moved to Australia. During challenging moments, the weeds were great reminders that wherever I am, no matter the conditions, I can find or make my own sunshine to thrive under. If a beautiful flower can bloom from a weed in the tiniest crack between bricks or on a concrete surface, I can find my own way, too.
Defining what a weed is, and reframing the implications for how to be, is a fun exercise. Here's a list of characteristics from a plant-lovers blog paired with my notes:
- Plants that grow in undesirable locations —> we can be strong and active wherever we are, even if it's not where we want to be
- Plants that grow very quickly —> the journey to thriving is quick when we don't resist where we are and what we have to work with
- Plants that have extensive root systems —> being anchored in life comes from finding nourishment through our homes, relationships, communities, and within ourselves
- Plants that produce lots of seeds —> we're here to abundantly share whatever it is that we do (create through our gifts and passions) naturally and with ease
- Plants able to live in extreme and poor environmental conditions —> we are always stronger and more capable of overcoming challenges than we think
There's so much to observe and internalize with every root, stem, leaf, and petal. From weeds to roses, it's no wonder why people get so into gardening; each interaction, day, and season that passes is a teachable moment if we let it be.
Mama nature, you've got my attention. Thank you for your wisdom. And for Summertime flower crowns.
