Thank you. Merci. Obrigado. Dankie. Grazie. Spasiba. Matondo. Asante. Danke. Takk. Do jeh. Diolch. Efharisto. Mahalo. Gracias. Toda.
Have you ever stopped to consider the hardworking bee, bird and butterfly? Have you ever thanked them for their ceaseless efforts, without which we would probably all starve to death. Einstein rightly said: “If the bee disappeared off the face of the Earth, man would only have four years left to live." Our apricots and peaches are flowering much to the delight of the sunbirds. The sunflowers have started opening and are covered with bees. The seeding onions seem alive with the busy activities of butterflies, bees and sunbirds. All our efforts on our homestead would be wasted if it weren't for these incredible little creatures.
When I joined Steemit I put a lot - and I mean a LOT - of effort into finding kindred spirits. I followed and upvoted and commented. I posted for a number of challenges and contests. I upvoted and commented. And upvoted and commented. And upvoted and commented.... I still upvote and comment. But my rule now is the "three strikes and you're out". If I make the effort to upvote and comment, surely at some point, that person will at least acknowledge my efforts? Who doesn't feel equally disillusioned - yes disgusted - that there are those on this platform who expect the upvotes but do not condescend to reply. Ever!
Now I don't run around thanking tiny insects but I do plant herbs that will sustain these live-giving little creatures. We keep hives. We put out safe little islands of water so that the tiniest creatures can refresh themselves without drowning in the process. We share - often involutarily - our bounty of fruit. I will always encourage others, especially gardeners and homesteaders, to cater for the butterflies, bees and birds.
But back to the Steemit garden. Let's face it, this cyber homestead sometimes seems a virtual weed garden with obnoxious parasitic critters. I no longer get disappointed. But I do value a two way relationship. I just give my upvotes and comments to the worthy ones. Look for those beautiful butterflies, birds and bees. Put your efforts into supporting them! Upvote and comment the beautiful people without whom you wouldn't do too well in the cyber garden. These are the beautiful ones who brighten this platform, they bring life and meaning.
My interpretation of a challenge is often rather unusual. For today's #fruitsandveggiesmonday I want to thank an extra special butterfly; Lena! Many of you who look forward to this inspiring weekly challenge will agree, 
