Lilly of the Valley
This spring I am drawn to remembering. Remembering where I planted the fall bulbs as I await their showing, remembering the fragrance of earth thawed and of green renewing. Remembering my call as a new annual year within my faith tradition nears. Remembering and recognizing the multitude of transitions taking place during this season called spring. There is remembering and then there is re-membering.
I find myself likened to the Lilly of the Valley, its fragrance pungent, strong, and unique. I have been told by others as far as the church goes, “You are an anomaly.” An anomaly is something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.
Similar to the fragrance of a Lilly which can infuse the senses either repugnantly or sensuously you know that I am here, springing forth, pushing upward with perseverance through the seasons of winter dormancy into spring.
Lilly’s often fragrance our spaces of worship, whether inside a building or outside, even in our own backyards. The Easter Lilly is a remembering of “Hope Lives” and the great “I Am” and “Christ is Risen.”
I am a Lilly of the Valley, drawn to a call that is not standard, normal, or expected, yet I spring forth. Not from the heights of a perceived altar, rather I live in the valley, along the marsh that is like muck most days that breeds mosquitos and biting flies. Yet, where I am, and where I live, is one of the most beautiful and life giving places to be.
Perhaps you are likened to a Rhododendron or a Blueberry blossom, or a Bleeding Heart, all part of God’s creation called forth. Come to the garden, let us grow together, nurtured by the air breathed in and out, from one another. There is nothing like some wholesome fresh spring air.
You are invited to gaze upon / take some time to pause / enter into the photo as you contemplate the following questions, and notice what sparks within you:
- What is green or greening for you?
- What is budding or springing forth in you or through you?
- What are the droplets of refreshing water coming / gifted to you?
- Can you smell the fragrance that springs forth?
Sieglinde Rogers, UMC Licensed Local Pastor, MSW, MDIV, Spiritual Director Beach Plum Ministries / Lilly of the Valley Retreats, Bereavement Counselor, Board of Directors, Fellowship of United Methodist Spiritual Directors and Retreat Leaders: Hearts on Fire. These reflections represent the view of the author..