Sometimes this tree represents how my life appears. On the surface it might look dead and colorless, but the inside has a lot going on. New life is surging with sap with nourishment traveling from root to the tip of branches. Someone might insert a spigot and fill a bucket with delicious, sweet syrup to be boiled down to its essence then poured on hot, golden brown pancakes or waffles. (Are you getting hungry? I am.)

But then, not far from this tree is a conservatory kept at a perfect temperature and moisture level to nurture another miracle of nature. A blossom with blood-red center represents the passions of my heart--thriving, blooming, fading, but always coming back to give pleasure to those in my life. At least, this is what I hope.

It was worth a trip to Longwood Gardens in March to be reminded of the wonder and beauty of God's creation in nature and in my humanity.