My favorite aspect of spring is the reminder that a new beginning is always possible. Just as nature transforms with this new season, we too have the opportunity to bloom alongside our surroundings. This spring, I’ve decided to start the season by exploring a new hobby: gardening.

I’ll be honest—I’ve never had a green thumb. Every plant I bring home eventually loses its luster, and almost all the flowers I plant don’t sprout. This season, however, I want to give myself the opportunity to truly learn what gardening is all about.

Like us, a plant needs the right environment and care to grow, which can be difficult to create at times. Our environment impacts our ability to thrive. Everything from the people we surround ourselves with to the things we invest our energy in plays a role in our growth. We must learn how our surroundings shape us—what nurtures us and what drains us.

I realized that to be a successful gardener, I also need to understand the specific needs of my plants. Soil and water alone aren’t enough; I need to learn which type of soil works best, how much water is necessary, and what weather conditions will help them flourish. I may not be great at gardening now, but with patience, a willingness to learn, and openness to receiving guidance from others, I can improve.

Spring is a perfect time to explore a new hobby or skill. It inspires fresh starts and represents the potential for renewal and creativity. While I’ve chosen gardening, others may find joy in painting, hiking, writing, or learning an instrument. The important thing is to embrace the season’s energy and take a step toward something new. After all, just like the flowers that bloom in spring, we, too, can grow in ways we never expected.