There is so much significance to the way a flower presents itself to the world. The beauty that lies within it is given freely and without effort, in service to those who have the good fortune to enjoy its presence in their lives.
Christianity is deeply embedded in my family history and personal story. I was raised in an Evangelical Christian home. My grandfather was a lay minister and my brother is a pastor. Christian values were the foundation for how I entered in to my marriage and I remained steadfast and true to those values. My vows were important and meaningful and I told myself I wanted and needed a perfect Christian life. In the breakdown of my marriage, I began to question what a perfect Christian life represented. At Friends Church, I found a place where I could look at my beliefs, extracting what I needed and implementing new ways of thinking that fit my life today.
We are challenged to go within by the leadership of Friends Church. Encouraged to explore and be an active participant in our own spiritual journey. Do the work, “Spiritual Gym” they call it. Today, because of my spiritual and self exploration, I can celebrate who I am and I can give to the world how I choose, freely and without effort. Through my floral studio, Small Flowers, I can bring happiness by giving flowers in ways that I find meaningful. I actively seek ways to give and I keep, giving water, at the forefront of my life because it matters to me.
Like the flower, humanity presents itself to the world in different ways. We are not homogenized. We are real and messy It is in the ownership and authenticity of who we are that our true beauty unveils itself. Individually, the tiny flower has uniqueness, strength and beauty and owes it to the world to show up and be seen. When grouped with other flowers, strength and beauty is magnified. Flowers remind me that the way I show up in the world must be authentic. Through diversity as human beings—we are better collectively. I appreciate that Friends Church values the diversity of the human experience and the beauty that lies within it.
Elli! You are a beautiful lady inside and out. Always have been. Lovely to watch you blossom over the years, albeit only on fb. As I have watched your posts your beautiful and radiance shines through.
Hugs