Grasshoppers Leap Into the Future

 

Grasshoppers Leap into the Future

You never know what will greet you when you open your front door. This time it was a grasshopper that had settled on the glass, an intriguing start to the day. Grasshoppers seem so ordinary but they have a history of deep symbolism. Sometimes looking into symbolism helps us move along in difficult times.

Grasshoppers are a symbol of good luck. They jump up and forward and encourage us to do the same, to move ahead and not get stuck on the past or regrets. It also is a symbol for freedom, joy, and creativity, among other positive qualities.

During this pandemic we are often, understandably, lost in negative, worrisome thoughts. But there are positive things to focus on: neighbors greeting neighbors with smiles and friendly though distant conversations, gratitude for the dedication of our health practitioners, conscious appreciation of the people in our lives.

The grasshopper eventually hopped away, taking a leap of faith that it will land safely. Perhaps it was a reminder for us to do the same.  

Lots to know about grasshoppers:

https://www.thoughtco.com/fascinating-facts-about-grasshoppers-1968334

Hostas and Us

Hostas and Us

We planted hostas in pots in our front yard last year hoping to keep away the animals that were munching on the leaves. It seems to have worked. The hostas had a few leaves nibbled on but not many and this season they were full of flowers! Each time I thought they were finished, new buds opened up and they are sending out shoots for new plants as well. The plants seem to really like where they are. And that is mostly in the shade.

I enjoy watching plants grow. Each season brings something to appreciate whether it is flowers hinting at beauty before they burst forth or leaves opening up to drink on the sun or even a struggling plant coming into its own. The African Violet  sitting in a pot on my kitchen windowsill is in its second blossoming, a joy for me to see.

I try not to casually dismiss each plant’s possibilities of expressing itself. I feel the same about people. We each have the possibility of offering the best of ourselves and especially in this difficult pandemic time, I hope that consideration of others is part of our social interaction. I notice lately that neighbors are waving and smiling when I take a walk, a friendly and welcome but sensitive distant greeting.

So even though I can’t individually be with everyone who follows Ferida’s Backyard, let me at least express my appreciation for my readers. I look forward to us all being healthy, productive, and blossoming once again.   

How to plant hostas in a pot:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=woi8wdyHzK4

More info about hostas:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVbo4zTpbXk