Careful Pruning

As I leave my driveway, I look back toward the house and notice my favorite hydrangea plants. They were a Mother’s Day gift a few years ago and I have so enjoyed the bounty of blossoms and often share small bouquets with neighbors and friends. 

This year they are filled with green leaves and yet I can only spy one small blossom.  

Every time I leave my house and see that singular flower I can’t help but think there is a lesson in here somewhere.  You see, it started back at the beginning of spring when I decided to prune them.  I couldn’t remember the technique of the past years.  When I consulted my husband, he said to just cut back the stalks.  All of them.  And that is what I did. 

Each of the three plants had several woody stalks and I just cut and pruned and cut and pruned. No ugly barren spikes sticking up.   

As time passes, the stems are growing and leafing out - yet only one solo bloom can be spotted.  And even that one is smaller than usual and much less colorful. 

I am reminded of another growing season. And of my pruning and pruning and pruning. 

My second son struggled his first two years of high school. And like an over zealous gardener, I kept pruning and cutting, cutting and pruning. Pushing hard to shape him into the plant I thought he should be.  The pressure and pruning was too great and he shut down.  Eventually he left  the traditional classroom to finish up his education with a private teacher.  It was a long and uncertain time and we hoped and prayed we made the right decision. 

Two more years have passed. 

I feed and water him with love and encouragement. With curiosity and respect. I cut or prune only when absolutely necessary. And even that is minimal.  I notice as I continue to let him grow at his own pace and in his own style, he has begun to flourish. 

I walk out amidst my flower garden and realize I went too far. I will have few, if any, hydrangea bouquets this year.  I am reminded the importance of careful pruning.

This year I will enjoy the greenery and be grateful for the reminder.

And the same as with my son, I will wait with patience, excitement and rich anticipation for the next season’s blossoms.