Wonderfabulous

I’m not really a woo person, yet it does seem that just when I am in need in inspiration, the park always delivers.

The other afternoon I was walking the dog. The light was clear and sharp, that late afternoon golden light that makes every tree look taller, every flower crisper and brighter. Across the road, I spotted this person in a white turban and a long flowing red robe carrying a potted plant. They weren’t walking quickly, but they weren’t meandering either. There was something purposeful and compelling in the way they were moving and holding that plant. I felt I had to talk to them.

Happily, they were willing to talk. Their name was Rose Wonderfabulous. Thank you Golden Gate Park!!!

Rose said they come to the park every Monday afternoon while taking part in a regular weekly meeting. “I’m part of a group and I just tune in through my phone. But I like to be in the park. I like to be around the trees. It’s just really relaxing and enjoyable.”

They had just picked up the plant from a friend. The friend told Rose, “I heard you are a plant whisperer, and I need some help with this plant. I don't know what's going on — the color has started to fade. You need to figure out what's going on.” Rose told the friend, “Let me spend some time with it.”

“So I'm really just taking this plant on a walk. It's kind of funny you know, but I'm like, if the small plants need anything, why not some inspiration from the more deeply rooted ones, the elders. You know, just like, come get some wisdom, some nourishment, and then we'll take you back to the apartment.”

All wisdom from its elders aside, Rose was pretty sure the plant was root-bound and more than anything else, needed to be repotted.

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And frankly I shouldn’t have to had wait for this encounter with Rose Wonderfabulous to feel inspired. This time of year, all I have to do is keep my eyes open to the fabulous wonders that are right there: