This piece features a combination of plants I have enjoyed since childhood – blue vervain, blackeyed susan, and daisy. As a kid I noticed that they seemed to pop up in the same ditches every year.
This thriving collection of companion flowers managed to survive for years and in doing so created a diverse ecosystem. But like anything they are a part of a larger whole. If the monarchs are happy here they will go onto a nearby garden while the chickadee will most likely continue on a quest for food leaving seeds along the way. The whole ecosystem thrives when these wild companion plants do.
As humans we contribute and take a part in the larger whole, we are no different than the plants. Our roots intertwine as we grow and add to the world. We require food, water, shelter and love in order to thrive. If we thrive so do those around us – even those we do not agree with.
The wild world does not care about superficial differences like race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation – caring about “differences” is a human thing. Focusing on such differences and allowing that to affect our own behavior causes strife in the ecosystem. Sometimes humans forget how interconnected things really are. This piece is a reminder to observe and follow the lead of our thriving wild companions.
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This piece will be on display through the month of June for the annual Unite Against Hate Show in at Brigid’s Pub in Bemidji, MN. The event is a night of music, art and camaraderie in one of the coolest local establishments around, and is hosted by some neat folks from the community. See this piece in person and enjoy a fun evening out if you are around the Bemidji Area on June 1st.
