Verbena Bee

The possibilities for exploring life cycles that parallel the plant world are vast and meaningful. At the beginning of this project, Winter Wellness for Plant People, I hoped to create experiences that might elicit memories, emotions and feelings for those living with dementia. I was optimistic it was possible.

Horticultural Therapy is known to be a great tool for opening up a portal to our mind by activating our senses. What I didn’t know was the impact being part of this experience as a facilitator would have on me. I’ve been a witness to such grace, magic and pure joy. My companions on this journey have touched my heart. Today’s activities were the culmination of our time together.

We had spent the longest Maine winter in recent memory gathering for uplifting plant and flower projects. The ladies shared intermittent glimpses of who they were in their earlier lives. At times, the reminiscences were so vivid, we were all transported to someone’s backyard. One participant named Ruth became so animated around the flowers she took us all with her when she lovingly described gardening with her daughters.

Today, as we planted pansies I felt the absence of Ruth deeply. She had passed away several weeks ago. Little did I know how much she LOVED pansies. Her daughter shared this with me later. As I think about this coincidence, I smile knowing Pansies and Ruth will forever be intertwined in my life.