It was a normal hot summer day in the little town of Port St. Joe Florida. Kids were playing outside, people were mowing grass, or just relaxing by a pool. Everyone was enjoying the nice sunny day. All except me anyway. Normally this kind of weather is my thing but today I wish it were cold and raining. Instead of relaxing or hanging with my friends I'm stuck helping my dad with his garden. I love my dad I really do. I just hate gardening. Especially when sticky sweat is running down my face and I can barely breathe from the Florida humidity. I keep looking hopefully up at the clouds willing it to rain at least a drop on my head. Unfortunately for me the clouds were moving away and it was becoming even hotter.

"How much longer do we have to do this?"

"Lily, when you leave we aren't going to get to do this anymore."

"Hurray!"

"Don't you want time with me at all?"

"Of course I do just not doing this."

"Gardening is relaxing and fun. Here plant this flower."

I wanted to scream. I did not find this relaxing in any sort of way. The whole time I was planting I was praying to God that whoever I end up marrying will not like gardening.

"Okay can we stop now?"

"If you stop complaining I'll take you for ice cream later."

The heat was what made me agree.

Finally at about 4 in the afternoon my dad quit. We went inside and I wanted to drink a whole gallon of water. Knowing that wouldn't be healthy I just settled for a single glass. We both sat on the counter in silence until my dad started talking about gardening. I rolled my eyes but listened to what he had to say anyway.

"I know you hate gardening, but there is a reason I make you do it every summer. Other than to spend quality time with me that is."

"Why?"

"Because it's good for you."

I rolled my eyes at him again. I should've guessed he'd give me some vague answer. I looked over at him waiting to see if he'd go on this time.

"You know what happens when you plant seeds right?"

"Yea plants grow"

"Right but they need caring for along the way. Then when you've enough work for them the flowers and vegetables bloom. It's the same way in life. When you put in enough effort and really try, your life can become something beautiful. Much like a flower only better. I love you Lily and I know you're going to turn into an outstanding woman. You have so much for you. Just work hard and you will be great at whatever you do."

I couldn't help but smile. I never liked it much when he used things like gardening as metaphors, but this time it was special. He saw my true potential and I knew I wouldn't let him down. I would work hard and be something he would be proud of.

"I love you Daddy."

"I love you too my flower. Let's go get that ice cream."

I jumped off that stool and ran to the door faster than ever. I was passed ready to get ice cream.