Beauty of a Flower

"When was the last time you really appreciated the beauty and wonder of a flower?"- Matthew Kelly

I feel this relates to so many things. I've been more aware of flowers, now with spring in full bloom, it's wonderful to see the vibrant colors and blooms showcasing their dazzle and wonder after the rainstorms. 

Just this morning at Mass, the priest mentioned the beauty of nature and how it's God's footprint. He said he's been loving to look at the white blossoms outside his window and just the pure blessings all around us. 

It's true, there are so many incredible and beautiful blessings. And in the quote from Kelly, to actually stop and look at a flower, and see all God's glory. As I've been on my walks and runs, I come across many plants and flowers. Some catch my eye more than others and just happen for me to look a bit longer on the color, details and beauty of the rose, tree blossom or how the wind or bees are giving attention to it. It really slows down time.

I find flowers can also be something spiritual. Sometimes I say a prayer or ask for a 'sign', to show me I'm on the right path or what God's will is. Usually, I think of a rose as it's my favorite flower, Our Lady's flower as well as other associations with saints (St. Therese of Lisieux). As I leave church, I 'run into' stained glass images of St. Therese and Our Lady of Gudalupe both surrounded by red roses. I also see roses as I park my car outside my sister's house- such beautiful plants and flowers they have! 

All of this catches me to pause and thank God for the sheer beauty and blessings around me. All I have to do is pay attention.

As a friend and I were sharing conversation over Middle Eastern food, she mentioned how perhaps some hardships and situations can be God telling us something, reminders for us that also go deeper into the spiritual life. What great insight! 

Perhaps now I've been able to catch up with my thoughts a bit more. I know how it feels to be entrenched and all consumed with stresses, to do's, even anxiety and worries and lack of focus or appreciation for much else. Our world and mind can feel so small and breakable. There is nothing better than silence, slowing down, and prayer. 

And then I'm able to notice the beautiful flowers, or the sweet cherub smile of my dear niece. She is now officially a daughter of God, being baptized into the church the first week of Easter. Her light, mysterious colored eyes, her big smile, sweet breaths as she falls asleep, her soft hair and chubby legs are all reminders of God's goodness, beauty, and presence. How many times I just want to lay in his arms and rest and surrender all those worries and anxieties, or whatever else was on my heart and mind.