“A”pril means new blooms on old wood
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| Lilacs bloom in early spring on “old wood.” © 2011 by Diane Weidenbenner. |
It’s spring, or so the calendar and Almanac say. Another change-of-season indicator is the fact that my husband, Joe, has gotten out the chain saw. He’s oiled it, sharpened the blade and tested it out on a few unsuspecting bushes. I fear for our plants’ lives this time of year.
I felt it necessary to mention to him that the lilac bushes seem to have buds on them and that now would not be a good time to trim them. I remember hearing that they bloom on “old wood.” Specifically, “Flowering on old wood means that a plant forms the flower buds for next year’s blooms during the current year. The buds are carried through winter on last year’s growth – the old wood. After these plants bloom, they begin forming the flower buds for the following year.” Proven Winners.
At the age of 51, I sometimes feel like old wood. My joints ache, areas of my body are not where they once were and skin elasticity has been replaced by wrinkles. Of course my hair is still a pretty light brown with red and blond highlights but as to the magic dye recipe, only my hair stylist knows for sure.
I’m not complaining. I am on the other side of menopause so there are a few benefits to that! I’m a better writer, cook and driver than I was in my 20s. Okay, two out of three isn’t bad. One of the benefits of being old wood is that I can build on the blessings from one year to the next. I’m learning from my mistakes and am making new ones less often. I value God, family and friends now more than ever. I’ve learned that many of the things that truly matter can’t be earned with money or through popularity. Lilac’s spring blossoms depend on the strength, health and wealth of the past season in order to create beauty for the next. I like that idea.
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| © 2011 by Diane Weidenbenner. |
I can learn from the Lilac bush with respect to better health, which is an area where I prefer “instant gratification.” Last year I began swimming and, of course, I wanted to see the extra pounds melt off like butter on hot buns. Over time, by keeping to a schedule, I was able to drop one pants size, which gave me motivation to continue (at least until winter came). This spring I want to resume my schedule at the pool and also spend more time fixing evening meals with fresher ingredients.
“Old wood” is a good thing in relation to my spiritual journey. To grow in faith, and to be able to weather life’s trials, I need to build on a strong foundation of communion with God and others, prayer, the Eucharist and Scripture study. Joe has encouraged me to attend Church again this Easter season and I’m praying and reading my Bible more consistently. I’ve also joined a wonderful group of faith-filled women in the choir. For the first time in quite a while, I feel my spiritual buds sprouting and branches becoming stronger and greener. Old wood becomes sturdier and stronger over time, with deepening roots.
And, I’m doing the Blogging from A-Z Challenge for April. Sweeping the dust bunnies from my keyboard. Wiping the fingerprints and coffee stains from my iPad cover. Shaking off the cobwebs of self-doubt and insecurity that go along with me sharing my personal writing.
It’s not a bad thing to be old wood.
8 Comments
Amy Morgan
Diane, I stopped by after your leaving a comment on my blog. What a delight to find your post. It was not only beautifully written but refreshingly straight forward and the bloom on "old wood" struck a real chord with me. Best of luck to you as you embark on your A-Z challenge. I am not partaking this year (I have once before) but have bookmarked your page to watch your journey throughout the month. God speed and good luck!
Joanne
Hi Diane, Thank you so much for your sweet comment on my blog! I LOVE your pictures! My husband gets a bit over zealous when it comes to trimming the bushes around our home…I cringe too! Great start to the A to Z challenge…good luck!
Blessings, Joanne
Marianne (Mare) Baker Ball
very lovely analogy. I can relate! Aging brings wisdom and a peace with ourselves that we don't have as spring chickens. 🙂
Rory Fist
I feel like old wood sometimes at just 36. 🙂
I love lilac bushes–they are definitely a model to learn from. My parents' yard has an enormous lilac bush, as do many of their neighbors' yards. When they bloom, oh, then neighborhood smells just heavenly. I always wanted a bush in my yard when I grew up, but they don't grow well in the South.
Thanks for your comment on my blog!
Grazona
Great post! Thanks for commenting on my blog and inspiring me to come read yours! I will definitely be coming back during the challenge to see what other wise words you have to share!
Jaimie Ramsey
Diane, I love this! What a beautifully written post and a thoughtful analogy.
I'm honestly looking forward to when I have the knowledge, experience and wisdom that comes with age… but until then, I'll enjoy being like the lilac bud. 🙂
Visiting from the A-Z…I'm over at JaimieRamsey.com. 🙂
Stepheny Houghtllin
Stopped by on the 4th day of the #atozchallenge. I have looked at over 150 blogs since day 1. This is a beautiful blog in every way. You are to be congratulated with the writing and over-all presentation. I look forward to following you. I am writing about gardening and related subjects this month. If you have time or interest, please visit me.
Spacerguy
Is it time for a colorful metaphor?