I popped to the garden centre today, in the hope of getting some inspiration for my balcony gardening. But my happy trip was interrupted by a drunken man at the bus stop, spouting his racist opinions at me. I was merrily minding my own business when he drew me into conversation. I tried to reason with him, but my arguments and opinions were falling on deaf ears.

I’m normally surrounded by like-minded, liberal people. It was a jolt to be confronted by such small-minded thoughts and opinions. He wasn’t directing his anger and aggression at me, but I was affronted by his views, for humankind in general.

By the time I got to the garden centre, I was feeling despondent and no amount of looking at lovely plants was going to lift my spirits. So, I went home and sat on my balcony with his thoughts ringing in my ears.

But the wonder of gardening and getting back to nature (who could resist not smiling at such beauty) is to connect with humanity, wonder and well-being.