Nyasha owns(ed) many bamboo plants. Originally, they were lucky bamboo, potted in water in groups of several stalks. That is sure death. It might be an interesting temporary desk plant or quickie gift for a friend, but it is not a permanent housing idea for bamboo.
During college, Nyasha and Shante attempted to grow “sister plants”. They exchanged starts of foliage from the two coasts, Shante in Boston and Nyasha in Seattle. Nyasha mailed bamboo. It was a perilous and ultimately deadly endeavor. Touching and sweet, but we are talking about plants none the less.
Bamboo, planted in the earth, will never die. In fact, it spreads like wildfire. It crosses the fence line and invades the neighbors landscape, something Mic knows all too well. Gardeners warn homeowners to create concrete perimeters, and watch for sprouts that try to jump the line.
But the houseplants have a lifespan. It might have to do with the size of a pot. It may be the lanky, sprawling stalks, too thin to support their height. Or it just might be about Angua and Ruby, Nyasha’s cats. With feline stealth, they sneak to the base and gnaw on the greens. Leaves are like salad. Stalks are malicious mischief. (Carrot stays busy in the kitchen, attempting to lick the butter.)
The symbolism for bamboo (oh dear) is strength, flexibility and health. These particular plants started as “lucky bamboo”. Go literal? I think not.
The bamboo are jumping realms! They are taking their assets to where we can reach higher principles. We are reaching up! The luck, strength, flexibility, and health will be with us from the Spiritual space. Thank you bamboo for your presence and your presents. We love you and wish you a beautiful journey to Valhalla.
micheleplumbstowell.org 