An excellent gardener of my acquaintance used to say, “Roses are selfish. They don’t want to share space with any other plants.” I have observed that this seems especially true of hybrid roses. Wild roses seem to be of a tougher nature and can take over an area. I do love the look and smell of the many hybrid roses. A well-tended garden of hybrid roses is breathtaking! I do admire the toughness and persistence of the wild rose. The triumphant conquering of an unwelcoming environment by these sturdy plants prompts me to want to be like that in my human life.
On reflection, I do wonder which plant I am like. I am under no illusion that I have the beauty of either. Am I a hothouse plant that always needs to be the center of attention? Am I selfish? Do I always need to have it my way? Can I take pleasure in the accomplishments of others?
I have read that the final mark of a great teacher is to have students who go far beyond him or her. Jesus told his disciples in John’s gospel, “…greater things than I have done you will do, because I go to the Father.” Roses are not the only selfish plant. The Black Walnut tree will drop sap on all within its circle until it has poisoned all that is beneath it. I think I have known some people like that.
So, if you were a plant, what kind would you be? Would you jealously protect your place or would you be the kind of companion plant that helps others to grow? Even if no one thinks you are a rose, be the best kind of plant you can be.