PRETTY PERSONAL

Pheona & Me
PART TWO
I found the perfect pot for my new friend, but I failed to buy potting soil. It wasn’t a huge deal because we had a few near-empty bags thrown in the back of our shed. As I poured the very dry soil into the pot, I instantly regretted not picking up the fresher soil that was parked next to the register. But dirt is dirt, right? I spoke to her as I transplanted her, assuring her that her new home was a lovely place. I know she’s just a plant, but it was hard to sound convincing when I wasn’t certain myself. The finished product was a tiny, frightened (I’m sure) plant being swallowed up by a big pot. I looked at her and said a quick prayer. Would she survive or die like the others?
When I awoke the next morning, I was surprised that she was still alive. I opened the drapes and greeted her with a warm “Hello”. I gently touched her small leaves and told her how beautiful she was. That became our morning ritual. I check her soil to make sure she doesn’t dry out or drown.
The reality is I have to do the same for myself. I’d been waffling between the two extremes far too long. One day I’d be so dry I could barely speak, then the next day, the floods would come in and I’d float away. I had a few choices to make, each one being harder than the next.
Just as I nourish Pheona by sweet words, a gentle touch and proper watering, I have to do the same for myself. I couldn’t wait for others to nurture me. Learning how to do it for myself on occasion has done wonders for the soul, and taken pressure off of everyone else. I may not see a single person during the course of the day who will say a kind word to me, and now, that’s okay. It doesn’t mean that the sting isn’t there. It means that I am no longer bound by seeking validation from others.
The pot is now filled with tons of healthy green leaves, and it is just a matter of time before Pheona will need a much larger home in order to continue to grow. It is amazing to see how the two of us have grown. Just as my physical touch and care has helped Pheona, her quiet strength has encouraged me when I needed it.
Although I’ve only had Pheona for about 6 short months, she has become an inspiration and a good friend.


Two are better than one. Because they have a good reward for their labor.
~Ecc. 4:9