How Could Giving a Present Make Me Feel So Lonely? - An Unexpected Attachment
During Leafve’s development, I had occasion (after years of attempts) to FINALLY score a table at The French Laundry in Yountville, California, known without exaggeration as likely America’s most-famous restaurant, and for good reason. It was truly a remarkable experience - nothing can beat the exceptional talent of its Owner and Executive Chef, Mr. Thomas Kellor, and the exquisite sense of occasion he imbues, even into an ordinary Tuesday night like the one enjoyed with my friends.
After the hours-long dinner had finished, I drove my friends to their car, but thought it fun to go back and enjoy some time in their outdoor lounge with a glass of wine. As I opened the door to the outside courtyard, the only other person seen was a man standing at the end of the long entranceway, dressed all in white, which was surprising - I’d not seen anyone all night dressed like he was. His leg was kicked out to one side, almost posed, like he was waiting for me to come back.
As I got closer, I realized this guy I was approaching was Chef Kellor himself, in the flesh, presumably hanging outside for some fresh air, and not for me to fumble my words. I was carrying Penelope, my roadtrip Leafve friend, to keep me company while hanging out in the lounge (it was late and most tables were empty). Mr Kellor asked about Penelope, and I cooly gave him the basics, demonstrating the wick action, self-watering, etc. I thanked him for a fine dinner and was seated by the host. As I sat, the idea came that Penelope would make a nice thank you gift for Chef. He kindly came over and gratefully accepted Penelope.
As happy as I was to share my first-ever pre-launch Leafve, what came next was really surprising to me. Penelope and I had spent about two weeks together on this roadtrip, and now all of a sudden, her space in the cupholder was empty. I missed her, and was feeling sad! Dumb as that may sound, my reaction was in line with my research about the science of forming bonds with other organisms, no matter how ‘insignificant’ that organism may seem. I had had a bond with Penelope, and felt its loss. Without dramatizing the notion overmuch, plants can be ‘people’ too - they can provide a presence of life for us. My only hope is that Chef Kellor will enjoy a similar ‘relationship’ with Penelope. (I will definitely follow-up…)
In short, plants are more important for us than most may think. I can’t wait to hear how others will feel, with their Leafve friendships!