The human race has created some pretty miraculous and beautiful things in our reign here on planet earth. We have beautiful architecture, bright fabrics and clothes for every season, imaginative shoes and boots, exquisite art, detailed and functional furniture, and an array of foods to tease our appetites. We live in a bountiful world where our creativity can be put to use in so many ways. But, everything that we create comes from materials provided by our planet. I say that I am creating a garden, but in truth, I am only creating the space and providing the nutrients for the soil, the seeds, and the plants to grow. I have not created the marigolds or the zinnias. I cannot take credit for the tomatoes, the cucumbers, or the beans. I must give credit where credit is due. I am simply a middleman, a laborer, and a caretaker. The creation of my garden design also did not come from me. It is but inspiration that comes to me and from which I take direction.
Last night we were gifted with a gentle rain that lasted for a couple of hours. This morning the freshness in the air is pure. We can filter our water and enhance it, but we can never do so as perfectly or as easily as nature herself. Our plants grow stronger when given rainwater instead of tap water. We can continue to make things, many that are quite impressive and handsome; but nothing that we bring forth from our own hands can compare to the natural beauty and perfection of life itself. The crisp smell of clean air, the cool taste of fresh water, the petals on a flower, the breathtaking moment of birth – either live or from an egg – and the perfection of a newborn, are things we can only witness. It is foolishness to think that we can improve on Mother Nature. Mother knows best and nothing we do can even begin to compare with the natural beauty that surrounds us in this place we call home.
