The Money Tree

I look upon the pleasure which we take in a garden as
one of the most innocent delights in human life. . . It
gives us a great insight into the contrivance and wisdom
of Nature, and suggests innumerable subjects for meditation.

Cicero

The above is the most recent addition to my in-house garden.  I may not have a backyard, but that doesn't mean I can't have plants.  My latest addition is a special type of bonsai tree with the  botanical name is Pachira Aquatica, but it is commonly known as 'The Money Tree'.  According to the Chinese, the  'Money Tree' is a traditional symbol of luck and is believed to bring good fortune and weath.  Hence, it is a popular gift during the Chinese New Year. There are various tales of how it became known as the 'Money Tree', but one of my favorites involves a poor, hardworking farmer who said many prayers for help. 

According to legend, one morning the farmer was working in his fields and came across a beautiful, yet rather  unusual plant.  He decided to dig it up,  bring it home, and nurture it.  After all, perhaps this was what he was waiting for, the answer to his prayers. As time passed, nuts began to grow on the little plant, and the found that he was able to sell these nuts. He took the seeds and began to grow more trees which he was able to sell as well.  Soon, he became a great entrepreneur.   

The  tree is symbolic in that it has five leaves stemming from each branch which basically represent the five  elements of feng shui-- water, metal, wood, fire, and earth. With all five, 'feng shui' balance is achieved, thus bringing harmony to a space. The tree must be properly placed to bring luck and fortune to the household. The proper place for the plant is the northwest corner of a room, and it would be most ideal if your money was kept there as well.

Today is quite a stormy day so I've already made up my mid to stay home.  My tummy feels much better.  Sometimes I tend to forget that now that I am older, I just cannot eat like I once did.  Heck, when I was young I could eat anything I wanted.  I especially loved buffets and had to try a bit of everything, but those days are long gone. Now I cannot mix like I used to, and yesterday I sort of lost control.  A wee bit of this and a wee bit of that doesn't seem like much, but when you put them together will all the other things you ate, and you have a messed up tummy.   Moderation is the key.  Wishing you all a wonderful day.

Balance recognizes that many good things in life are good only
in moderation. There really can be too much of something wonderful.
Most virtues, taken to excess become vices. When an interest,
affection, or endeavor becomes utterly consuming, it doesn't
allow room for other kinds of goodness.

Unknown