XIAN REN ZHANG II

XIAN REN ZHANG II


Finally, the comb reappeared last night. Finally. About time. It has never gone on a disappearing act for so many days.



Anyway, Cacti doesn't seem to be growing. I wonder if it's because of the rainy monsoon. My Cacti needs the sun! Rather than growing taller or stronger, Cacti seems to have shrunk instead.

Perhaps it's not solely because of the wet weather. The fault lies with me too, perhaps. Honestly, I can't remember when is the last time I gave it even a drop of water (hey! It's the monsoon, what! Right?).

Admittedly, the care and love and concern I shower on Cacti have dwindled a dreadful lot. During the initial couple of weeks, I would sing to Cacti as and when I felt like it. Sometimes, it would be Heart of Worship. Other times, it would be Somewhere Over the Rainbow. During those days, while practicing the guitar, at times I would place Cacti directly in front of me and play some music to it (no, it didn't immediately wilt and shrivel up and die, you prat). Now? I hardly even cast it a second glance.

And, yes, if there is one thing that Cacti is in dire need of, it is some long-overdue nutrient. I've already read up on it (errr... Since 2months ago?). The usual, recommended practice is to re-pot any newly-purchased plant. This is because, usually, after being left on the shelf for so long, the plant has long used up the existing nutrients in the current soil. Yeah! Perhaps I'll do so over this coming weekend. That is, if I don't procrastinate my way out of this already! Ermmm... Hoho!



There's just this thing about cactus. It is almost like a paradox. They're pretty, yet have a crude, defensive mechanism to protect itself. They look delicate, but are actually so unexpectedly resilient and strong. They are such a character to reckon with!

There is just something about cactus that just sets it apart from other plants. I don't know. Maybe, for most plants to bud or to look good, they need a lot of care and attention. Cactus, however, can still bud and look good even when given no - or minimal - care and attention.

There is just something about cactus that leaves me in awe and respect. I don't know. Self-efficacy? I find it totally amazing, how cactus can still bloom so beautifully under a set of limiting conditions which other, less resilient plants would - most probably - not be able to even survive in. I simply admire the way how cactus are able to make full and - most importantly - optimal use of whatever is available to them. If only cactus are human, no doubt they would be wise, highly-efficient, highly-competent, and strong ones.