Simple Pleasures: The Joy of Gardening

My father has had a garden as long as I can remember. When we lived in a subdivision with a small yard, he had a small garden behind the garage. When we moved out into the country, he had a large garden. It always produced more than my family would consume. When I asked him why he planted such a big garden, he replied that he just enjoyed growing things.

I inherited my green thumb from my father. I love growing things, as well. I get great satisfaction from harvesting vegetables I have labored to grow. And eating those vegetables gives me as much pleasure as growing them. I feel a sense of fulfillment knowing these vegetables are here because of my efforts.

When I am in my garden the only thing that matters is getting the weeds out, getting the water to my plants, and keeping the insects away. It is much simpler than normal everyday life. It is something I have a bit of control over. If I do these things, my garden will reward me with ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and spicy peppers.

There is a sense of serenity and calm when I'm in my garden. I love to walk between the rows along the paths I have made. This is my place. While I am there the sounds of the world are muted. The worries and tension are outside the borders of my little garden.

As I munch on the salad I assemble from the produce in my garden I feel as if I have accomplished something worthwhile. I have grown food for me and my family. This food is healthy and good for our bodies. This food was not grown by some faceless stranger. I poured my heart and soul into this garden and this food.

Working in my garden, watching it produce, and enjoying the harvest are some of the greatest pleasures in my life. There is a simple joy in watching the plants grow. Each plant has its own personality. Even plants of the same species have different personalities. Some of them grow tall, some spread out, some have blossoms on lower branches. But, they all strive to reach for the sun and sky. And in amidst this striving, they produce fruit and vegetables. It's a wondrous progression to see. And it is a wonderful feeling to be a part of the process and help them along their path in life.

There are times when I walk among the rows I have created and just look at the plants. I am one of those people who talk to my plants. I encourage them. I tell them how beautiful they are and how proud I am that they have graced me with wonderful food to eat. I touch a leaf here, a branch there and commune with the plants.

Many people I talk with tell me they don't have a garden because it is too much work. It is not worth it to them. I have a hard time understanding this. Yes, it is a lot of work. But, there are so many rewards that come from that work.