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Tenacity:
Nurture that of Crab Grass
By Sheri McGregor

When I first moved into my home nearly sixteen years ago, the land was covered with a soft carpet of crabgrass. Lush and green, the grass was easily cared for by the older couple who had nurtured it. But I wanted garden and flower beds – meaning a never ending effort to clear away areas of the tenacious grass.  

The original process meant digging down past the roots, and baring the rich, dark earth beneath. But I soon learned that baring the soil didn't mean much. Even a single tine of the persistent grass -- cut off from its roots and accidentally left in the soil – would proliferate into new tufts, with new roots and crawling branches that quickly spread out atop the soil.

Over the years, I've continued to grow my flowers and vegetables, but it does mean a continual battle. I've also come to appreciate the tenacity and persistence of that stubborn grass. In the hottest part of summer, I've learned to let it creep across the beds. While keeping watch that it doesn't smother out my plants, I allow it to act as a barrier to sunlight, thus retaining the soil's moisture.  And recently, when a tree's growth meant shade encroached over a bed of flowers needing more light, I applauded the persistent groundcover. With just a little watering, the lush, green grass took over, and now provides a soft carpet for a cool, restful spot in my yard.

Affirmations

Tenacity: I will remember the tenacity of crab grass. With water, and despite rough conditions, a carpet of green will grow. I will be just as persistent.

Change: What is once unwanted may later be considered a blessing. I will learn roll with life's changes, and adjust my perceptions accordingly.  

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by Sheri McGregor and may not be reproduced without express permission.