For weeks I watched for spring ephemerals, those charming woodland wildflowers that bloom for just a few weeks in early spring prior to the trees leafing out above them. Finally, along Old Oak Trail on April 8, I found my first one — Rue Anemone! I put off processing it until today, April 10, which now has me awestruck.
I read quite a bit about this sweet little flower this morning, learning that it does not waste energy producing nectar but, rather, relies on its shape and color to attract pollinators. This limits pollinators, but the plant can afford to do this given its impressive longevity, which results from long-lived underground roots. In contrast, shorter-lived ephemerals ensure their survival by producing nectar to lure a wide variety of pollinators; however, this strategy comes at a cost as some insects rob the nectar while bypassing the pollen!
For me, no dive into a plant's history would be complete without a look at the plant's Victorian symbolism; and there's where the awe came in. On this Good Friday, I woke thinking of Jesus' sacrifice. As I moved through my morning activities while contemplating His selfless act of love, I read the Victorian meaning of Anemone: forsaken. I read it again. Forsaken? Today? Incredible.
And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
— Matthew 27:46
I praise you, Lord, for all the ways you show up in my life.
I dedicate this image to my mother, who celebrates her birthday today in Heaven with Jesus. Thank you, mom, for sharing your faith with me. ♥
