Perspective: The Difference between a Flower and a Weed

Recently, I was admiring our small, yet eclectic collection of flower vases. One stood out as if it had accidentally been spared when narrowing down our group of ‘to keep’ items before moving to our small cottage in the mountains.  

Its deep, dark green glass clashed with the colors we had chosen for our new home. It did not have any markings to give the impression that it was special or unique. 

Its biggest negative trait was its shape, as it was not conducive to holding many flowers. Isn’t that the primary purpose of a flower vase?

I set the vase aside, along with a grouping of other items that were one step away from the ‘donate’ pile. Later in the day, I nonchalantly asked my husband about it. 

My question was phrased as if I already knew the answer: We’re not keeping this, right?

In that moment, the fate of the vase was changed forever. 

The deep, dark green glass vase had belonged to my husband’s grandparents. It was made from an old, oddly-shaped wine bottle. 

Suddenly, this vase is invaluable as it connects us to the past as well as to our present vineyard and wine-making adventures. 

This seemingly inconsequential exchange offers several important reminders for how to expand our perspectives: 

• Slow down and ask questions. Perhaps, we get in a rush to get things done, or prefer to move on to the next task. We may even think we know the answer. When we take the time to ask questions, we invite others to share their stories or expand our knowledge in large or small ways. What if this leads to a deeper connection? 
• Find meaning in the mundane. Many objects, tasks, and even informal interactions may seem to have little value in the big scheme of things. And yet, as we look back on our lives, it is likely the everyday moments that bring the most meaningful memories. What if the small things really are the big things?
• Be open to possibilities. We may cling to our comfort zone or what fits neatly into our plans, and see things in a certain way. It may seem as if there is no other option. When we release our grip on a particular outcome, we give ourselves permission to see things in a whole new light. What if there is an awe-factor that awaits us? 

Our treasured deep, dark green glass vase

The vase that once seemed like a clashing of hues, with its deep dark green, has turned out to be a glorious contrast - a pop of color. Its oddly shaped design, simply means it wishes to hold a single ‘statement’ flower or a small bundle of those with slender stems.

As spring is fully coming into its own, wildflowers have sprung up in a chorus of color scattered across our open fields. A few days ago, I picked my own, wonderfully unique bouquet of them.

Can you imagine? I have the perfect vase to showcase their beauty.