Read by Matilda Longbottom

AAt the age of 10, with a cabbage plant in hand for an “eco-friendly” project, I found myself thrust into the world of gardening. Thankfully, I had the guidance of Grandpa, a seasoned gardener who had spent decades nurturing all manners of flora.

In my youthful naivety, I thought gardening was simply dirt, water, and sunshine. But Grandpa, with his seventy years of experience, knew better. Together, we faced challenges, like an infestation of grubs that threatened our cabbage plant. Despite setbacks, Grandpa’s wisdom prevailed. He taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance.

Over the years, I became Grandpa’s gardening apprentice, savoring the bounties of his labor—potatoes, eggplants, tomatoes, and more. But with his passing, I feared his garden would wither away.

Recalling Grandpa’s words—”If I had given up then …”—I rallied my family to revive the garden. As we tended to the soil, I realized the true essence of gardening: nurturing growth, both in plants and in ourselves.

Today, as I harvest cucumbers and tomatoes, I feel Grandpa’s spirit among the blossoms. His legacy lives on, not just in the thriving garden, but in the lessons of perseverance and love he imparted. ❖

About the Author: Katie Zakrzewski is a writer and enthusiast of all things green. Growing up under the tutelage of her grandfather, she developed a passion for gardening and storytelling. When she’s not tending to her own garden, Katie can be found crafting tales that celebrate the beauty of nature and the enduring bonds between generations.