The Plant That Grew From Love
A little background: My soon to be husband enjoys having and taking care of fish tanks and their residents. When we first moved in together, it was quite a mission for him to bring over his 10-gallon aquarium but he did it. In other words–patience is definitely one of his strong suits.
Recently he decided to upgrade to a bigger tank and while the bigger tank was immediately more aesthetically pleasing, the plants from the previous tank had to go through an adjustment period. The plants from the previous tank, once tall and green, were definitely feeling the change to a new environment. I saw him caring for the plants while they adjusted, literally brushing them with a brush to keep the algae off and changing the color and quality of the lights to help the plants thrive.
There was one plant in particular who he thought was a goner. According to him, she wasn’t growing and looked to be in very bad condition. Honestly, I can’t even tell you from my personal view how she looked because I only saw her when she began to flourish. As he continued to clean the tank, make adjustments, and call me over to tell me how beautiful she was, she only kept growing and thriving.
Look at those luscious leaves!
As I celebrated my upcoming wedding with some of the most beautiful and loving women in my life, I saw myself as the plant. I was in no way in “poor condition” or a “goner” when entering into my relationship. In fact, one of my favorite parts about Ricardo and I’s story is how I had surrendered to God and the Universe just before coming into Union. I had let go of how I thought things were supposed to be. I had not only made peace with my present, I was living with a newfound sense of gratitude, and at times even, joy. I had so much love for my family, my friends, and myself.
Photo Credit: Ricky Mantilla (2023)
Yet, I saw myself as the plant that day because it really hit me– the importance of the person living with you and caring for you. When two people are seeing each other through the eyes of love, they can’t help but to flourish. When you are able to create the necessary adjustments and go through difficult periods with patience and care, growth happens. Colors come out. Beauty is created.
I have felt the effects of our love internally but the other day as my friend snapped pictures and recorded videos of me on the beach, I was actually able to see the joy radiating from within and for this I am so grateful.
Thrivin’
With an Ocean of Gratitude,
The Plant That Grows From Love