Cacti have the ability to endure and grow in harsh climes. They open their breathing spores at night instead of day to prevent moisture evaporating in the sun. And if you’ve ever sat in my chair and enthusiastically swung your arm as you spoke, you’ve experienced the sharpness of this cactus’ spines (a few people come to mind!). But these spikes also collect water droplets to support the roots and have helped my pet plant on the weeks I’ve forgotten to water.

As masters of survival they grow slow—but sure. These photos were taken five years apart (thanks FB for the reminder of the older one) and a cactus that seemed mostly the same from day to day, has significantly and impressively grown.

Are you feeling a bit like a cactus right now? Enduring a season of drought? Feeling like your prickles need to be ‘out’ for protection but feeling bad when someone gets too close to your spines?

That doesn’t mean you’re not growing. In the past five years, some of my fast growing or more showy plants have either not made it, or have had to be drastically pruned (once again probably due to their environment of my inconsistent watering!). Yet this survivor has held steady and faithful and I find myself admiring it not only for its uniqueness, but for its otherworldly beauty.

And maybe you’re doing better than you think you are too.

Lessons from a cactus

Five years ago

Now