🌿 Joy, Grief, and Glass Walls: A lesson in unintended consequences

For the past three years, I’ve dreamed of having a greenhouse — a little haven of warmth and life, nestled in the embrace of nature. I imagined the scent of damp soil, the comfort of sprouting seeds, and the meditative ritual of tending to plants.

Last month, that dream became real. My greenhouse is finally complete. And it is everything, if not more than, I hoped for.

Finials!!

Every moment I spend inside it feels sacred. Whether I’m toiling in the soil, arranging tools and pots, or sketching out plans for my spring garden, this space offers me solace in a tumultuous world. It’s my sanctuary — a place where time slows down, and life feels deeply rooted.

2025 garden plan

And then, something unexpected.

One morning, I walked up to the greenhouse and saw a small bird lying still at the threshold. It must have flown into the glass and died. Just like that. A life extinguished by something I had built to bring more life into the world.

I was mortified. Heartbroken.

How could something that brings me so much joy and peace cause harm to another living being?

At first I hoped it was just stunned…but no. Gone.

It was a stark realization:Our joy, our creations, our dreams… can have unintended consequences.

The glass walls that let in light and warmth — that make the greenhouse such a magical space — had become invisible barriers that ended a tiny life.

I buried the bird gently. Whispered a quiet apology. And promised to learn from the moment.

Now, I’m making changes.I’ve started researching ways to make the glass more visible to birds — from reflective stickers to bird-safe patterns. Small steps that can save lives while still allowing the light in.

This experience hasn’t dimmed my joy — it has deepened it.

It reminded me that true connection with nature means being accountable. It means holding joy and grief in the same hand. It means asking not just what do I want to create, but who else might be affected?

That’s the heart of mindful living.

💬 A gentle invitation:

Have you ever had a moment when something you created or loved had an unintended consequence?

I’d love to hear your reflections. Hit reply or leave a comment — let’s hold space together for these tender, complex experiences.

And if this story resonated with you, consider sharing it with a friend who finds beauty in the in-between moments too.

With care,

Anika

Hälsa Home