Each evening as I pick up my hose and begin to gently spray my potted begonias, impatiens, geraniums, and herbs, I remember my grandfather doing the same in his fertile gardens. I remember the scent of the wet foliage and the way the plants and flowers seemed to perk up with gratitude for the refreshing drink after a hot summer day. There were evenings when my grandfather would hand me the hose and let me partake in his evening routine. I would try to spray his hardy vegetables with the same gentle touch.
As I continue the simple ritual of watering at duck in my backyard, I will always be reminded those happy and peaceful summer evenings spent with my grandfather in his small patch of land in the Bronx.
What about you?
Where can you find respite and peace in your day? How do you embrace the mundane?