NEW GROWTH

June 21, 2017

My sister gave one azalea to me and one azalea to my mother on Mother's Day. I kept mine inside for a few days before setting it out on the deck. I found a shaded spot and watered it every time the soil started to dry. Initially, it resented the transition to the 80-degree temps. After one week, it acclimated and is now filled with lush new leaves.
The second azalea went home with my mother who enjoyed it as a centerpiece on her dining table until she went in for knee
replacement surgery. We watered it and left it in the dark house until my sister found it in critical condition. Yikes! I brought it to my house and put it in the 'plant infirmary.' It received shade and water as needed. Thankfully, tiny green leaves are replacing the dead brown leaves. I have faith it will recover and flourish.
What a difference environmental conditions make. Think about that the next time you are tempted to judge a child or a person who is not flourishing. And never give up. As long as there is life, there is potential for new growth.


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