Confessions of a Black Thumb: My Unlikely Odyssey onto the Civic Garden Center Board
By Maura Moran-Berry, CGC Board Member
I stand before you, a self-proclaimed plant destroyer. You might wonder: why on earth would I, the black thumb of a gardening matriarchy, willingly join the board of the Civic Garden Center? The answer, friends, lies somewhere between sheer audacity and a desperate plea for redemption. I can kill a succulent faster than you can say, “horticulture.” My relationship with plants is less symbiotic and more...well, catastrophic. But rather than cower in shame, I embraced my ineptitude and marched straight into the gardening world's heart: the CGC.
Now, you might be wondering what qualifications a black thumb like me could possibly bring to the esteemed board of a plant-focused nonprofit. Well, for starters, I am living proof that even the most hopeless cases can find refuge in the leafy embrace of horticultural enthusiasts. Think of me as the cautionary tale that keeps your hydrangeas up at night.
But amidst the laughter and camaraderie, there lies a more profound truth: the CGC is more than just a sanctuary for seasoned gardeners; it's a haven for nature enthusiasts of all stripes, even those of us whose thumbs are more black than green. I love plants and nature, and by joining the board, I hope to prove that there's room in the garden for everyone—even those of us whose gardening prowess leaves much to be desired. There's a genuine opportunity to make a difference. By championing sustainable gardening practices and promoting community engagement, even the blackest of thumbs can leave a green imprint on the world. Who knows? Maybe they'll even inspire a new generation of plant whisperers who can finally end the reign of terror that is black thumb syndrome.
My day job is managing Cincinnati Children’s real estate department. We are a neighbor institution to the CGC, and this has allowed me to witness the CGC acting as a beacon of community engagement and environmental stewardship. By becoming a part of its board, an individual with black thumbs can actively participate in initiatives to promote sustainable gardening practices, foster green spaces, teach young and old how to grow plants, appreciate nature and enhance the well-being of local communities. Through collaborative efforts, they can leverage their unique perspectives and experiences to inspire others and effect positive change.
For someone who has struggled with traditional gardening endeavors, being involved in a community dedicated to celebrating nature can instill a newfound sense of passion and fulfillment. It allows me to support its efforts while redefining my relationship with plants and the environment, discovering hidden talents and strengths along the way. Additionally, joining the CGC’s board opens doors to meaningful connections and relationships. Through interactions with fellow board members, volunteers and garden enthusiasts, individuals with black thumbs can find support, encouragement and mentorship. They can exchange ideas, share experiences and collaborate on projects that foster personal and professional growth.
Moreover, serving on the CGC’s board provides an opportunity to make a tangible impact on the local community and beyond. By advocating for green initiatives, organizing educational programs and spearheading outreach efforts, individuals with black thumbs can help cultivate a culture of environmental consciousness and responsibility. Their contributions, no matter how small, can ripple outward, inspiring others to embrace beauty, environmental stewardship and importance of nature. Those involved with the CGC, whether with black thumbs or green, can not only thrive in the gardening world but also leave a lasting legacy of growth and inspiration for generations to come.
In conclusion, the journey of a black thumb joining the CGC is like a sitcom waiting to happen. It's a tale of redemption, laughter and the triumph of hope over wilted leaves. I know my family is getting a kick out of it. After all, when life gives you lemons, you might try to grow a lemon tree and bring a few friends along, right?