This Blooming Cactus a Metaphor for Life: FOTD

The cacti in my garden is blooming, bright and yellow on thorny flat green stems that look like a beaver’s tail. The cacti has spread further into the garden bed and when I asked a neighbour if she wanted some she said, “oh no, cactus is too ugly and has too many thorns.” What do you see when you see a cactus? Do you see the thorns or the flowers? Ugliness or beauty?

Yes, this variety of cactus has many sharp spines and blooms for only a short time in the summer, but when it blooms wow! It is a metaphor for life.

Cacti grow in some of the harshest conditions on our planet – without much water, in extremely hot conditions during the day, that shift quickly to cool when the sun sets. Cacti are mostly unloved, but those who love them love them completely. Yes, you have to manage them gently and with thick gloves, but their needles are purposeful. The spines are protective to vulnerabilities that may spell their demise if they didn’t have them, and keep them strong. They have deep roots and find their own equilibrium in order to navigate extreme conditions. And, they grow, offering interest to a stark landscape and sustenance for desert animals.

Be like a cactus, have lots of spine, find your own balance, and once in a while bloom. Bring your joy to the surface and share it with the world.

Who wants some cactus? And who wants to be like some? 🙂

This is my contribution for Cee’s FOTD (Flower of the Day) Challenge.