What Nature Teaches Us About Gratitude

Fall leaves remind us of nature’s cycles—letting go, embracing change, and making space for new growth

Fall leaves remind us of nature’s cycles—letting go, embracing change, and making space for new growth

As Thanksgiving approaches, we reflect on the people, opportunities, and experiences that fill our lives with gratitude. At Good Earth Plant Company, working with plants every day reminds us that nature has so much to teach us about thankfulness and balance.

1. The Gift of Patience

Nature operates on its own timeline, and it teaches us to slow down and trust the process. A tiny seed doesn’t become a tree overnight; growth takes time, care, and consistency. Plants remind us that good things are worth the wait and that small, steady efforts often lead to the most rewarding outcomes.

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the value of patience. We’re inspired to pause, appreciate the small steps forward, and be grateful for every stage of our journey—just as we celebrate the first sprout or the flourishing of a thoughtfully designed living wall.

2. Resilience in the Face of Challenges 

Thriving in harmony—our succulents grow gracefully on the side of our building, bringing life and greenery to every corner.

Our succulents grow gracefully on the side of our building, bringing life and greenery to every corner.

Nature is a master of resilience. From desert plants that thrive in harsh, arid environments to mosses that flourish in dark, damp corners, plants adapt and find ways to survive—even in less-than-ideal conditions.

This resilience reminds us to remain hopeful and resourceful during challenging times. Plants show us that setbacks can be opportunities for growth, and that even in adversity, life finds a way. As we look back on the year, we’re grateful for the strength we’ve gained and for the challenges that shaped us into who we are today.

3. Abundance Without Excess

Nature thrives in balance, using only what is needed and giving back in return. A healthy ecosystem is one of reciprocity—plants take nutrients from the soil but also enrich it, ensuring sustainability for future growth.

This Thanksgiving, we’re reminded to live with the same intention. Gratitude teaches us to appreciate what we have and to live mindfully without taking more than we need. By embracing balance, we can create a life rooted in generosity and respect—for ourselves, others, and the planet.

4. The Power of Connection

Growing Our mission

Laurie and Linda Boarders of Plant It Again check out our living walls at Good Earth Plant Company. Photo: Jim Mumford

Nothing in nature exists in isolation. Plants form complex ecosystems—trees share nutrients through their roots, insects like bees and butterflies ensure pollination, and fungi create vast underground networks that sustain forests. Each part of the system plays a role in ensuring the health of the whole.

This interconnectedness reflects the relationships in our lives. At Good Earth Plant Company, we see how greenery fosters connection, whether it’s creating a welcoming space that sparks collaboration, or the shared joy of bringing nature indoors.  We celebrate the connections that enrich our lives—our families, friends, colleagues, and clients who support and inspire us.

A Closing Thought

As we gather around tables and connect with loved ones, let’s take a moment to reflect on the lessons we can learn from the natural world. At Good Earth Plant Company, we’re grateful for the opportunity to transform spaces and enrich lives through plants, bringing a little piece of nature’s wisdom into every project we touch. If you’d like to bring a touch of that tranquility into your own space, we’d love to help.

From all of us, thank you for supporting our passion for biophilic design. We wish you a warm, abundant, and gratitude-filled Thanksgiving!

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