Morning Work Musings

themutineer

I keep a phalaeonopsis orchid on my desk at work. It is petite, with ivory blossoms. Vibrant leaves and strong roots spill over the edges of the pot I’ve placed it in. When I brought it in one day after lunch, it felt out of place; a beautiful natural gift cultivated from the Earth as if by magic, amongst a convolution of computers, telephones, and fluorescent lights.

I had a fair amount of confidence in my ability to keep the orchid thriving, being that I once worked in a flower shop for nearly four years. I thought to myself that this would prove to be no problem, but I was mistaken.

Each day since I placed it in the spot right next to my telephone, I’ve watched it wither away. I have cared for it attentively; making sure that it is receiving the right amount of light, and watering it properly. I even take a few meditative moments out of each day to stop what I’m doing and rub its leaves, caress its roots, and send it loving thoughts. And still, it dies. The ivory blossoms languidly wilt, though its leaves and roots continue to endure without losing their vitality.

I looked at it this morning and I saw myself, and what this place is doing to me. It doesn’t matter that I take great care to cultivate growth – it’s stifled here. Just as wildlife is not meant to be kept inside stuffy corporate offices and craves to be under the shining sun, breathing the fresh air, and drinking in the falling rain; so does my heart, wild and free.