As I have been standing outside for carline these last few weeks, I could see the impact of the amount of local rainfall on my potted plants. The marigolds that were planted last spring are now shriveled and dying. The flowers were able to survive these many months with just the regular precipitation. However, a combination of high temperatures and low rainfall has pushed them past their survival point. So, I will soon be pulling the brown foliage out of their pots and replacing them with fall mums. If I do not want the same fate to befall the new plants, I will have to be more intentional about monitoring the soil moisture and actually watering the plants.

How many pieces of our lives can this analogy be tied to? What are the things that we need to

remember to give our attention to and water so they stay healthy? While there are many things that claim to need our attention, in my opinion, the most important are marriage, children, family, faith, and friendships. These are the things that matter - the relationships that can die if ignored. We need to intentionally invest our limited time and energy into the people around us and into our relationship with God. Take time every day to nurture and grow closer to those around you. You may be surprised by what flowers!

God’s Blessings,

Delaine Schiestel