For several years now I have made a habit of purchasing either an Amaryllis or a cluster of Paper Whites (aka Narcissus) just prior to Christmas. It's my little tradition for myself. There's something about the growth in the dead of winter, the anticipation of the bloom, the wonder that still gets me every time- of the plant and the water and the light and how it all comes together. Mostly though...I think about God when I check the status of my plant each day...I think about the symbolism represented there...the hope.
No, I don't save the same one and reuse it year to year, although I've been told you can. I'm not a green thumb. Though I highly admire people who are such as my Aunt Nancy and my Sister. I wish I had the wherewithall to listen to what they tell me as to how I can save the same bulb year after year...but something disconnects for me when they start to explain. Sad, but very true.
I just go to Target or any good chain store that offers too much and in many varieties...and purchase one. They only run about 10 bucks and well, they're priceless to me.
Mine recently bloomed as is evidenced by my picture this morning. Caleb took interest in the amaryllis this year and we discussed it nearly every morning. He was in awe as it got ready to spring forth with color and majesty! Too dramatic? Not for him...it truly was a sight to behold.
So you won't think I'm a bit of a freak over this...let me explain a bit. And for those of you that already know I am a freak...just come with me on the jaunt. After all, you're the one choosing to read the post. ;)
When it's cold outside...things die. All the green goes out of my world and well, it's depressing for me. I'm too sensitive for my own good, but alas, in addition to the inability for me to go outside and enjoy a moment in peace....I no longer have a feast of color to feed my inner self even from my window.
So in a sense, yes, I think too much...my amaryllis or paper white is my little 'garden of Eden'...for my soul. I look at it, think about God and the detailing. I see the green, it calms me and I get this wonderful surprise weeks and weeks later when it blooms.
I highly recommend this habit for yourself if you happen to be one that enjoys having something to feast on visually when you can't make it out of doors to study the botany of our world. I wouldn't say I'm a botanist or even a gardener so much...just a very, very avid admirer.
For some it's bamboo and it's growth rate (Luke!)...for some it's particular flowers, for some it's doing the digging and getting their hands in the dirt, for some it's the caregiving of the plant, for some it's the grandiose garden they can plan and then create with spectacular displays of color year 'round based on their plant choices.
For me...it's the watching, the waiting and then.....
The Miracle.
Abba, you're too good, too good. Hats off to You.
