Sunflowers

Several of my neighbours grow sunflowers. And this is the perfect time of year for admiring them – as they stand tall, brightly coloured, as though wishing a “Good Day!” to all who wander past.

There’s more to them, though; and with plenty of analogies that we can apply to our lives.
They are resilient; their stalks bend and shift as they search for the light that they need. One plant growing in our back lane has grown over a foot sideways, along the gravel, before it could veer upward and reach the sun. One can only imagine what interactions with wildlife it encounters in that pathway (my dogs have watered it more than once!)

They bloom where they’re planted – literally; a few small seeds from last years’ garden that dropped over the fence have provided some beauty into the laneway. Unexpectedly, as this is not the best soil (it’s gravel-covered) – yet they managed to flourish where they were with the circumstances they were given.

They’re useful in many ways; from late summer solace for the bumble bees that are still around, to the seeds that provide nourishment to the birds. We also harvest those seeds for ourselves, and use them as a snack, ground into a butter, press oil, etc.

They’re also just beautiful. Their brightness extends to our eyes, and we can choose to emulate them by bringing brightness to our world. They adjust themselves to turn to the light; and while this is for their general well-being, it is also a reminder for us to turn to The Light – the light that has been gifted to us, and sustains us in this life – and promises to guide us to eternity.

I know they are only here in this format for a short time, but while they are here I am able to enjoy them, appreciate them, and learn from them. May we all find some beauty in our daily lives!