As I watered the flowers this afternoon, I thought about all the days I’ve spent tending to them through the spring and summer. There have been cool spring days, a near record-breaking June with rain, and the baking heat of some brief heat waves.
This fall as per tradition (Dad would similarly try to push some flowers into November when possible by covering them up!) I’ve been covering them and dragging them into the garage to protect against near-zero temperatures lately, but with snow and negative degrees forecast for next week, their time is running short.
It got me thinking about how we care for who and what we love, even in their final stages. I struggle deeply with my beloved rabbit’s condition. Her extensive periodontitis with bone/jaw involvement has shifted her care to palliative according to the vet. Palliative is a terrifying word that gives the end of life a concrete shape. Despite the shadow in my heart I choose to focus on the precious moments here and now – and shower her with love, treats, nose rubs, opportunities to be naughty and spaces to rest in sunbeams. I savour every moment.
I shake my head. The flowers have an even more certain end, but still I water them. I quietly enjoy their beauty for another day, giving them exactly what they need to thrive for whatever time they have left.
