Anabella W., Kettering Fairmont High School
Our Garden
When my grandparents were still alive, I helped them grow our backyard garden. It was beautiful, with sprouting green seedlings and exuberant flowers you could spot miles away. The colors of the plants complimented each other, from the bright oranges to the lavender purples. It was a great accomplishment of ours. No plant ever died, the soil was always wet, and the sky was always bright. I was a young girl who found joy in anything I did. My happiest moments come from those with my grandparents; my nana and my papa. We spent all our time outdoors caring for our growing oasis. I loved to help them and it brought me delight.
Even while my nana and papa grew sicker, our garden remained beautiful. The bees danced, the clouds passed, and the soil stayed wet. I cared for the yard even if they weren’t there to guide me. It was difficult knowing what to do but not having who was always there. My nana and papa soon grew weak. I always offered them help. I felt fulfilled having them rely on me. I wanted to return the comfort they had given me my whole life. I had a good time figuring out my way around the garden alone. I was more independent and I learned new skills. Being the optimistic 7-year-old I was, everything was a new challenge. I was thrilled for each day to start again and for me to venture out, planting and caring for everything. I gave more with a positive attitude. I became more involved at school, volunteering to pass out things and help the teacher. Younger me was such a shy girl, so it was surprising that I even got the courage to speak to my teacher.
I know in my heart that my nana and papa loved my help. They would always compliment my work. My parents often praised me for taking care of my grandparents during their last years on Earth. I’d like to think that they appreciated me and that I did change the trajectory of their lives. I wished for them to be the happiest they could be through all the hardships they faced. Now as I begin high school, I visit the garden and see the wilted greens. But I understand that there is always next year for vibrant colors to bloom.
