Summer 2023: As the relentless sun bore down during one of the most intense summers in recent memory, my caladium garden faced a test of endurance and transformation. Wilting under the scorching heat, stalks succumbed to the temperatures, fading into the shadows of their once vibrant existence. Yet, in this dance of nature, other stalks thrived, benefiting from the decreasing competition and flourishing with newfound strength and vitality. It's a testament to life's delicate balance, the fleeting beauty of existence, and the profound lessons hidden within the simple act of growth and decay.