Omer Learning: Day 27

Here’s an unexpected source of hope for me: horseradish.

That’s probably odd, but hear me out.

For years, as Passover approached, I’d make my way to the supermarket to make my yearly purchase of a single horseradish root. Growing up, we used jared horseradish on seder plate, but Shira’s family insisted on the freshly grated stuff. So that became our tradition.

After the seder, the root would sit on our fridge till it shriveled up, and I’d toss it.

But last year, I decided, I’d step up my game and plant the root. Like usual, I purchased a majestic specimen of of horseradish from Whole foods. And like usual, we used about 2 tablespoons of it. But alas, my goal of planting the remaining section kept getting delayed. Finally, like usual, I found myself with a shriveled up piece of horseradish, that seemed destined for the compost bin.

I figured my goal this year of planting my horseradish was a bust. On a whim however, I sliced the root into three chunks and put them in water on our kitchen island. To my surprise, weeks of waiting, all 3 sprouted. I then planted them in a section of on back yard where nothing grows, and to my shock and joy, the horseradish thrived there. I got the joy of not just watching something grow, but also using horseradish greens in our cooking.

Winter, of course, killed off the obvious signs of the horseradish. But as you can see in the photo, they are back at spring time. If all goes to plan, this year’s horseradish run won’t involve a trip to Whole Foods, instead, it will be to our backyard.

I’m sure those with a green thumb are shaking their head at my story. Of course horseradish grew, it’s basically weed. Sure, have your perspective, that’s fine.

For me, however, this is a lesson in persistence and hope itself. When I think all is lost, I think of the humble horseradish and how it patiently refused to give up.
–Ben Simon