https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prayer_callus

In 2017 I had started looking for online groups and forums with shared interests, specifically about gardening.

I came across this discord channel named "GardenOfEnlightenment" on Craigslist (I swear most things on this site are some kind of red flag anyway). The name was a tad bit dramatic, but the posts about organic gardening, heirloom seeds, and composting techniques were all intriguing.

It seemed like the average gathering of gardening enthusiasts. Their channels would be mainly full of daily watering strategies, best home made weed repellents, input on the ethical treatment of aphids etc.

But as I delved deeper, I started noticing a recurring theme that should have immediately rung alarm bells. The moderators consistently referred to one user, "@GreenThumbProphet", with an almost startling reverence. Another red flag I guess was that their discord conference was invite only.

Eventually I was invited to my first “Grand Harvest Weekend Summit”. I was super excited to exchange plant trivia, share harvest tactics, and maybe gain some wisdom on battling pests organically.

It became evident quite quickly that this was distinctly not a normal gardening meeting when the hosts initiated by lighting candles and chanting in a language unfamiliar to my ears. They started talking about the Green Thumb Prophet’s teaching “to achieve eternal life through the balance of nature". First I thought it was some kinda stupid fucking joke, but soon it was clear that it was anthing but.

Everyone then extended their hands towards the screens, as one of them stated, “Now let's accept the blessings of the Green Thumb Prophet."

They then proceeded to "sacrifice" a basil plant by basically burning it alive with a blow torch.

Not gonna lie that shit was preety amusing. I left their stupid server immediately thereafter. Wonder if they still have one today.

TLDR: Joined an online gardening group that turned out to be a cult. Got a good laugh out of it so lol I guess.