Garden Variety Diversity

I've seen a lot of commercials lately regarding the way I am supposed to live. Apparently, there's a long list of things I shouldn't say, things I need to say, and social injustices I should look for daily while driving to work or getting my morning coffee at the local fast food restaurant down the street.

One of my least favorite ads is for boxed meals that come already prepped for cooking. Perfectly cut portions of chicken or pork and vegetables, ready to cook and eat. No creativity, no freshness, no mess- just cookie-cutter meals promoted by advertisers who insist diversity is what makes the world go round. 

Do I watch too much television? Maybe. But authentic diversity to me isn't a prepackaged concept created by one group and imposed upon another. The idea of diversity tends to be at its best when it initiates organically, free from the social construct created by those "in the know."  Yes, I  like my diversity like I like my fruits, vegetables, and flowers- fresh, colorful, and naturally grown. 

I'm Going to My Garden

Soon, I'm going to my garden, where the sun shines, the flowers grow, and the peppers and tomatoes live in harmony. No worries, no distractions--just butterflies and a plethora of fruits and vegetables await me there. Yes, I'm going to my garden soon.

The Self-Aware Garden

As I sat down to eat my lunch the other day, the advert on the back of the tuna packet I was eating from caught my eye- "Behold, the thing sandwiches dream about." 

If the thought of a self-aware sandwich is a wee bit frightening to you, you may not want to read any further. However, if you're up for the challenge, here's a thought: what type of gardeners do gardens dream about? In other words, if you were a garden, what type of gardener would you like taking care of you? A no frills, barefoot cultivator with a straw hat on their head and a hoe in their hand? Or maybe a newcomer on the gardening scene, dressed from head to toe in the latest gear from the Tractor Supply Store?

 

If I may offer an opinion, I think gardens just want a gardener who is passionate about what they do. Someone who isn't just concerned with the end result, but also enjoys the journey. 

Drama-Free Zone

Ever have someone share an idea or belief with you because they thought you would endorse said idea or belief? Then, when you didn't see things their way, they became upset or agitated? 

When I encounter situations like this, I long for the quietness of my garden. No one vying for my opinion and then resenting me because I have one. Just the occasional green bean vine interlaced with the silk of a corn stalk, or a tomato plant leaning a little too far to the left or a little too far to the right. No anger, no drama, just peace and quiet.