Sometimes plants die

Almost a decade ago an older friend gave me a plant as a housewarming gift.  I loved it, but told her that I had better not take it as I had a 'black thumb'.  She gave me a very good piece of advice that today took a larger meaning for me. 
"Sometimes plants die.  It doesn't mean that you are a bad gardener.  It just means that something killed the plant.  An insect, a virus, mold, bad weather...it's usually not the gardener's fault." 
I took the plant with trepidation, but was able to keep it alive.  After that I gained more confidence that even under the care of the best gardener, sometimes plants die.  Now I willingly keep houseplants, most of which I propagated myself; I keep a small herb and flower garden as well.  And yes, sometimes plants die.  It's not my fault.  I handle it, not by turning in my garden gloves, but rather tossing the expired plant and it's potting soil into the compost bin.  Later, that plant that died gives new life to other plants. 

Today, while caring for my houseplants I realized something big.  Not only is it true that

'sometimes plants die'

but also

'sometimes plans die'

...and it's not always your fault.  External factors can affect even the best laid plans, even when you do your best and work hard.
Right now it's back to the drawing board for me.  I'm putting some things through the compost and a little while down the road, these experiences will nourish new plans and I'll be stronger for it.

Thanks Ruth.