They are everywhere, especially in the Spring which in itself signals the start of another cycle of life.
Flowers are associated with new birth and rebirth. Think of the flowers offered as gifts to the recently deceased. Is this tradition, and the comfort people take by practicing it, an acknowledgement of rebirth into the spiritual realm?
Flowers are also given on special occasions…a first date, an anniversary, Mother’s Day, in forgiveness for some marital dispute, or to send a message. This last one is interesting. Back in the Victorian era when such things were practiced and known, lovers would exchange bouquets of flowers which looked nice and pretty on the bed table. However, each flower had a meaning and the message in the bouquet might be read as, ‘I love you always and need to see you now. We must not give up. But beware.’ For example, Red Rose (passionate love), Apple Blossom (promise), Hydrangea (perseverance), Rhododendron (beware). Woe to the unsuspecting or uneducated victim of the pending infidelity. It was also possible to mix in some decoy flowers to put the significant other off the scent, so to speak.
Flowers are also the glorious celebration of fertility. A plant puts a lot of energy into creating its blooms, and a lot of other species depend on the outcome. For example, bees collect the nectar and animals, including humans, eat the fruit and seeds. Speaking of humans, many put a lot of energy into creating a bloom of sorts…cosmetics, acquiring the latest Spring fashion or the “in” car, and being seen in the right places. This puts our behavior in close alignment with that of plants which maybe should not be so unexpected after all.
Happy Spring.
C 2012 Michael Krozer
