Today I pulled back the curtain to water my Christmas cactus. I have had this particular plant for a long time - well, at least since after my first round of cancer. I have carted it around from Illinois to Connecticut to Rochester. I even have left it in my Mother's capable care during times of moving.
The poor little thing has never bloomed. It almost bloomed after Mom took care of it for a month or so. Actually had a few little buds on it. But as soon as I took it back, the buds fell off and nothing came of it. It has slowly grown, and I repotted it a couple of years ago. I mostly keep it in the window for the sun. After all, it is a cactus. And this is not much of a desert or hothouse.
It obliges by growing long dangling arms of green succulent plant with little spines here and there, but no flowers or buds. I chalked it up to the stress of the household or the fact that I somehow got either a male plant or a defective thing. Or I just don't have a green thumb. Or even a pale yellow one. No matter. I like the greenery and everything has it purpose.
Today, as I pulled the curtain aside, I was suddenly greeted by more vibrant huge pink flowers than I could take in. What on earth happened?? Astounded, I set down the watercan and gently pull the pot from the window. More blooms cascade from the window side of the terra cotta pot. I am overwhelmed. I cannot believe this dormant quiet little unproductive plant has suddenly produced so many beautiful blooms that it completely makes up for all the years of silence.
I call the kids to look. They are impressed. What did I do? Nothing. Nothing different from what I have always done! The plant just decided it was time. We admire the gorgeous blossoms until we finally have to tear ourselves away. I tuck the pot carefully back in the window sill and head out into the day totally blessed and smiling my silly head off. Who would have thought?
No comments:
Post a Comment