Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/734304
Fall 2016 — www.ncsf.com 11 Frequently I hear comments such as these when families describe a loved one who has passed away: "She loved her fl owers" or "He loved to spend time in his garden growing all sorts of vegetables." Perhaps this is one of your "loves" as well. There seems to be something therapeutic about our relationship with nature. Ginny Kubitz Moyer in her book taste and See speaks to this experience as she shares her own love for roses. There is such a fascination with this fl ower and how it radiates beauty through color, smell, and texture. Botanic gardens will have areas set aside just for roses. These fl owers can cast a spell over people, bringing forth wonderful emotions, memories, and refl ections. But if we really search down deep within ourselves, a rose or any one of thousand fl owers and plants, can speak to us of the beauty and wonder of God, the creator of all. If we take the time to allow the fl ower to speak to our soul a connection happens, an entrance into the awesome beauty of God. But even more, Moyer says that through the process of hybridization and cross-breeding rose plants, those with the science background and patience can actually develop a fl ower that never existed before. She mentions that the Lincoln rose was born in 1964 and the yellow Peace rose appeared in 1945. I fi nd this fascinating that in so many ways God shares with humans the capacity to co-create. Not only are new fl owers created but gardens are arranged in spectacular ways to enrapture our senses. All of this can enhance our bond with the holiness and creative love of our God. Our "thank you" to God can simply fl ow from deep within us. Hopefully, you have discovered how important nature is for opening channels to God's presence, care, and love. I know for myself, that nature soothes me and constantly reminds me of God's love for me. Especially when life is pressured and hurried, knowing once again how close God is to me and how He cares about my life, can restore a sense of goodness and peace. Take time to smell the fl owers! FATHER CURT, SPIRITUAL ADVISOR Take Time to Smell the Flowers FAtHeR CuRt'S ReFleCtiON Ian McDonell from St. Margaret Court 1074, Athens, Wisconsin achieved Eagle Scout status. That's awesome! Pictured with Ian is his mom Vanessa, also a member, and his dad Bob. It is four generations of Foresters at St. Mary Court 998 in Rudolph, Wisconsin! On the far left is Court President Sylvia Weiler, to the far right is Sylvia's daughter Mary Ladick. Center is Mary's daughter Mary Agnes LaCasse. And in the stroller is the newest member of Court 998, Camille LaCasse! Members' Moments & Milestones