Read by Matilda Longbottom

BBecoming a first-time plant mom wasn’t exactly on my to-do list, but life has a funny way of surprising us. It was a bustling Saturday at the coffee shop where I worked, the usual blend of hurried families and chatty teens. But amidst the chaos, an unexpected guest arrived — my best friend, bearing a potted pothos plant.

I had been grappling with anxiety, and that day it hit me at the most inconvenient time. Gasping for air, I found myself seeking solace in the bathroom, desperately trying to calm my racing heart. Little did I know, this moment would mark the beginning of a transformative journey.

My friend, the resident “Plant Mother” of our group, had sensed my growing interest in greenery. She gave me the pothos plant along with some cuttings, nudging me gently into the world of plant care. As months passed, I found myself immersed in this new hobby, nurturing my plants with care and dedication.

A trip to the nursery became a regular occurrence as my plants thrived under the influence of Motown melodies and Beyoncé anthems. It wasn’t a magical cure for my anxiety, but it offered a sense of peace and purpose I hadn’t known before. Tending to my green companions, I discovered a joyous connection — even plants could be proud members of the Beyhive! ❖

About the Author: Chanice Cruz hails from Brooklyn, NY, where the vibrant pulse of city life ignited her passion for storytelling. It was in Richmond, VA, however, where she found her voice in the world of slam poetry and discovered the power of words to captivate hearts.

Currently serving as an Open Mic coordinator at Kew & Willow Books in Queens, NY, Chanice is also a beloved host of The Poet and the Reader Podcast. Her journey through literature led her to earn a bachelor’s degree in English from Queens College.

Her poetry has graced the pages of numerous publications, including Newtown Literary, Sinister Review, and Periphery Journal. When she’s not weaving tales or exploring the depths of verse, you can find Chanice tending to her beloved pothos plants, who sway to the rhythm of Beyoncé and Motown classics.