Well, almost. Scientists have found that chlorophyll molecules of green plants are amazingly similar to hemoglobin, the main component of our blood. Both are composed of a ring of carbon and nitrogen atoms surrounding a single atom. Their difference lies in the central atom, which is magnesium (Mg) in chlorophyll and iron (Fe) in hemoglobin. [Source: Green Nature, Human Nature: The Meaning of Plants in Our Lives by Charles A. Lewis]

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Meanwhile, let's continue... As we begin a new year, let's be grateful to the Quiet Ones. I'm not talking about pets or well-behaved kids. I'm talking about plants: red roses, book pages, your morning coffee, the cotton in your T-shirt, and the miracle behind aspirin. Be grateful, for plants make it possible for us to exist on earth. Think about it. As you exhale, plants inhale carbon dioxide, and then exhale life-giving oxygen in return.

Plants dance with us in more ways than you might suspect. Chlorophyll molecules of green plants are amazingly similar to hemoglobin, the main component of our blood. Both are composed of a ring of carbon and nitrogen atoms surrounding a single atom. Their difference lies in the central atom, which is magnesium in chlorophyll and iron in hemoglobin.

Plants also support us in their ability to store energy. Sun-powered photosynthesis removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, then pulls out the carbon and transforms it into leaves, roots and seeds. In other words, when you eat an apple, the solar energy captured in the fruit moves through your veins.

Plants transform us in more subtle ways, too. The next time you feel stressed go for a walk in the park, or simply focus on the plant sitting on your desk. Take a few deep breaths, and be grateful for something in your life, say, for the oxygen you just inhaled. You’ll notice an immediate shift in how you feel.

Plants also teach us about being nonjudgmental. It doesn’t matter if you’re poor or wealthy, old or young, or if you’re having a bad hair day, plants respond to love and care. Don’t you?