I’m never lonely when I walk outdoors, because the flowers talk to me. Before you gently suggest I look into medication, let me tell you that I’ve always had a vivid imagination. It keeps me from being lonely or bored. When I was 6 years old, I was obsessed with becoming a bird. I climbed high into the trees in our yard and as the branches swayed, I imagined the feeling of flight. I sneaked eggs from the refrigerator to create a realistic nest hidden in the tall bushes outside my mom’s bedroom window. I listened to the calls of the winged creatures around me and longed to know their language. I loved the feeling of freedom as I imagined being one of them.
Perhaps wrongly, I’ve always assumed other people create their own internal worlds and hear nature speak to them as well. Maybe not everyone hears encouraging words from blooming flowers when they take a walk in the rain? Not everyone is fixated on capturing the perfect photo to freeze the visual and the conversation in their mind? In case blossoms haven’t said anything to you lately, I will tell you what they told me today.
Hyacinth. Don’t worry if some seasons you cannot muster a full bloom; the fragrance will be just as sweet. (These flowers always speak to me personally with a “Hi-ya-Cynth!”)
Carolina Jasmine. When the milk is extra creamy, luxuriate in the butter. (When these bloom, I always think of rich, from-the-farm butter).
Lenten Rose. The world has enough solids. Find your own intricate pattern.
Bradford Pear. Some beauty is best admired from afar, because, well, it smells.
Flowering Quince. Maturity means showing the young buds how to open up.
Grape Hyacinth. Ahhhh if you are part of a friend cluster, nestle in and sigh deeply.
Poet’s Daffodil. Pale, monochromatic exteriors sometimes entomb bright vivid emotions. Take the time to peer below the surface.
Tulip Magnolia. Even if you are one among many, never dim your light.
Viola. Have you ever seen a viola that wasn’t smiling?! I rest my case.