What Plants Taught Me About 'Knowing Enough'

I recently repotted my plants.

Even though I use the same soil, keep them in the same place, and raise them in the same temperature and humidity, some become surprisingly vibrant while others quietly wither away.

At first, I found it strange.

Why are they so different when the environment is the same?

But when I think about it, humans might be the same.

Even when living in the same era and seeing the same scenery, some people feel happiness while others are consumed by suffering.

In the Tao Te Ching by Laozi that I read recently, the phrase 'knowing enough' appeared.

Actually, I had always thought 'enough' (taru) meant 'barrel' (taru).

That is why for a long time, I did not know the true meaning of this phrase.

Knowing enough.

Focusing on what you have now. Not counting what you lack, but recognizing what you already possess.

When I look at my plants, each one is living at its own pace.

Without comparing themselves to others or trying to overreach, they simply spread their leaves as much as they can within the environment they are given.

What about me?

Higher.
Further.
More.

Thinking only of such things, might I be overlooking the happiness right at my feet?

That a new sprout has appeared.
That I am alive today.
That I have people who are dear to me.

In truth, that should be more than enough to be fulfilled.

I thought I was growing plants, but perhaps it is I who am being grown by them.