Happy Saint Patrick’s Day! Did you know this holiday celebrates the life of Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland? It commemorates Patrick’s life and is celebrated on the anniversary of his death which is thought to be March 17, 461. Excuse my ignorance, but I just thought you were supposed to eat corn beef and cabbage, drink green beer and Irish whiskey. But I didn’t know the origin of the holiday!

When I gardened, I tried to plant something green on March 17. Some years it was quite successful. Other years, not so much! But green is the color of the day, for sure!

Arriving home from Florida yesterday, I immediately noticed that my green plants were frightfully dry. Now, mind you, I only have plants that are drought tolerant for this very reason. I’m just not a house plant lady. But, I dutifully watered my desert plants and noticed the most curious phenomenon. My Christmas cacti are covered with blossoms waiting to grace me with their hues of pink and red. I guess a 5 week drought pushes the blossoms out. I have another plant that is beautiful and green with bright waxy leaves. And it does nothing. It doesn’t appear to grow and it certainly doesn’t bloom. But today, there is evidence of new growth. It also seemed to benefit from the extended drought.

As I pondered this, I wondered if a “drought” isn’t also good for me occasionally. I admit, I like to stay home – I am a home-body. It is what I choose to do on many days. But I realize that when someone else imposes that on me, it feels different. Something inside kicks up and I feel a bit claustrophobic. Suddenly, I need to get out of the house.

Most days I choose to stay home because it is what I want to do. I like it. I thrive in it. Social distancing requires me to think about you. It isn’t just about what is good for me, it’s about what is good for you AND me. I guess my love for others might not be as genuine as it could be. And that is something for me to think about.

Don’t be selfish…be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

Philippians 2:3-4

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.

Romans 12:9-10

I guess what I’m telling myself is this: social distancing isn’t about what I want. It’s about protecting both of us. Who knows what will blossom and grow from this time of social drought?!