Bloom where you’re planted.

While not a Biblical phrase per say, it’s been a helpful phrase at various times in my life. 
Bloom where you’re planted.
To me, it has meant that while it may or may not be possible to change certain circumstances, we still have agency. 
We can make the best out of situations, and that’s where our power lies.
We can live into our gifts. 
We can bloom where we are planted. 

I have this Easter cactus at home named Esmeralda. 
When I first got Esmeralda the Easter cactus, she was in full bloom with gorgeous magenta flowers.  I even found a sparkly gold pot to help her be in all her glory.
I love my orchids and have gotten most to re-bloom over the years. 
So I thought it would be simple to keep Esmeralda happy and blooming away. 
I was wrong. 
I’ve lost count of how many Easters have come and gone and she has NOT bloomed. 
Not even one little flower.

Though the other day, I noticed a single bud that has slowly opened up to become a beautiful flower.   
In early June no less. 
Somehow it’s fitting that there may be just one flower, and it will appear after Easter has come and gone. 

Sometimes that’s how life goes. 
Blooming where we’re planted. 
Blooming when we’re ready. 

Love,
Pastor Lauren   

Photo by Rev. Lauren L. Ostrout.

Tuesday Thoughts 6/6/23