My
perennial garden is alive with fresh green shoots thrusting toward the
sun. Every year those tender leaves are evidence of hope over reason,
and the miracle of it all fills me with joy. One thing is clear though:
Mounds of iris and daylilies are taking up way too much space, crowding
out more delicate and interesting delphiniums, silver mound and the roses
I planted in Rainbow’s memory two years ago. My garden needs
a thorough culling.
I grew up with the ritual of spring housecleaning. My mother and my Aunt
Christine, who lived next door, were good German-American housewives who
seemed to vie for the cleanest home award. Room by room rugs were rolled
up, curtains came down, furniture was set aside and every extraneous bit
of clutter was removed. Then the scrubbing, painting, waxing and starching
could begin in earnest. Nothing went back into a room that wasn’t
inspected and mended if necessary. Clutter was discarded. The effect was
a highly polished, spic and span, fresh air start to summer.
Now when I look at my garden I remember that ritual and think that each
of us would benefit from some pruning, separating, purging and fertilizing. Here
are some questions to consider during your personal spring housecleaning:
- What is taking up way too much space (and energy) in your life?
- What is being crowded out because of that?
- To what or whom would you enjoy giving more space and energy instead?
- What actions will you take to make that space?
- What beliefs or ideas do you cling to that may be blocking a new and
better way of living?
- What relationship needs to be given more space?
- What needs to be removed from your life altogether?
- What will be required to ensure that you and your new opportunities
will thrive?
When I clean out my garden I will be mindful that by removing the unproductive
and overgrown plants, the whole garden can thrive. It’s hard to pull
apart plants that are flourishing after so many years. But the end result
will be worth the effort.
Now I challenge you. Make space for what you will truly enjoy this summer.
Get rid of what hinders your ability to live lightly. It will nurture your
soul, and that in turn will refresh those around you.
Happy spring!
Back To Top
