Every thought you have about yourself or others grows in one of two gardens.
The Walled Garden
Within high stone walls sits an ancient garden with rigid hedges trimmed to perfect angles and plants sorted by strict categories. The gardener here carries only shears and a measuring stick, ruthlessly cutting back anything that grows “incorrectly.” Plants either thrive exactly as expected or are removed entirely.
In this garden, thoughts can become unalterable verdicts: “This is just how I do things.” “I never get things right.” “They’re doing it wrong.” The measuring stick determines worth, and the shears enforce conformity.
The Open Garden
Just beyond those walls sprawls a different garden with gentle paths winding through diverse landscapes. Here, the gardener carries a watering can and a magnifying glass, studying how each plant responds to different conditions. Some plants that struggle in shade flourish when moved to sunlight.
In this garden, thoughts become useful observations: “This approach works better in these conditions.” “I notice a pattern worth exploring.” “They see things from a different perspective.” The magnifying glass reveals complexity, and the watering can nurtures understanding.
The Complete Landscape
Both gardens exist within you. Both have purpose. The walled garden provides structure and clear boundaries. The open garden allows for growth and adaptation.
You forget that you have access to both gardens.
When forming thoughts about yourself or others, notice which garden you’re standing in. Are you measuring against rigid standards or observing with genuine curiosity? Are you cutting away or cultivating understanding?
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