The old gentleman who works here walks past my window every morning. I’m pretty sure he passes by a second time on his way back though I have yet to catch him. Anyway, he definitely seems capable of some remedies.

Time for me to pay him a visit and return the favor.

As I walk in, I notice the apothecary smiling at me. Or is he? I cannot tell whether he is reading something or looking up at me through his glasses. Also, I have not visited an apothecary prior to this.

Yes, he is smiling at me. He nods quietly, observing without intruding.

So far, I have not been asked what brings me here. Generally speaking, that would be a wonderful thing. This time, not very much so. On that, later.

In the kindest voice, he says —

“Young man, no love potions here.”

That catches me off guard. 

I counter —

“Anything for wealth?” 

He acknowledges my sarcasm with a smile and counters —

“I would not be here myself”

I did forget to mention that this place smells like nature’s rawness — it’s quite therapeutic.

As I look around, a few randomly placed items catch my eye. I’m not sure if they’re for sale though.

I ask the apothecary, and the shopaholic in me is thrilled to learn that they are.

A wind chime easily catches my attention. For my lavender field? Yes, a gentle wind chime would be a sweet addition to my new reading area, for sure!

Upon closer look, it seems I won’t be its first owner. Well, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Hmm, on second thought, I don’t know… I do wonder sometimes about the energy things carry, or do they? Maybe the answer lies in not holding on, giving things a second life and embracing the natural flow of life.

A horseshoe? Well, it is a classic lucky charm  — one of the most recognised symbols of good luck.  So, maybe an entryway decor that brings good luck? Sounds like a win-win.

I then notice a single seed in a package. I turn it around, and it’s labeled “The Infinite Seed.” Not sure whether that is something beautiful or quietly unsettling to plant in a garden. What could it grow into?

As I pick it up, the apothecary adds to the drama, “Just don’t plant it near your neighbor’s fence.”

Is he joking? Let’s find out.

“I was thinking the middle of the living room” — I joke lamely.

“Not a bad spot,” he says, deadpan. So, I couldn’t keep up the joke and just laughed.

The shop is full of other wonders, too. I go ahead and pick up a few things I actually need, not just want — some herbal teas, incense sticks, and a few bars of handmade soap. Of course, all of that on top of the previously mentioned, that is.

I am not sure how to ask if he can help me with what ails me because his next question was exactly that.

Right then, another customer walks in so I decide to leave this for my next visit maybe.

The other customer… is my neighbor I can see from my lavender field in the evening usually. I have not yet officially said hi so far but this would be awkward timing for introduction.

Anyway, I wish them a nice day and leave.

The seed is all I can think about, to be honest.

I have always been fascinated by seeds. They are incredible. They represent so much. If you think of it, a seed is life in its simplest form. Like life, it teaches patience for the slow alchemy of formation.

As soon as I get home, I take it out of its package, filled with curiosity about what it might grow into. I decide on a sunny spot in the garden, close to a wall, just in case it turns out to be a climbing plant. Using my hands, I gently press it into the soil, hoping this will be the start of something.

Now, onto the remaining items in the bag…