Here in the northern hemisphere we rejoice in the return of spring. After the colder, wetter months of winter it's a joy to see buds on the trees and flowers blooming. We have more sunshine now too, which nearly always lifts the spirits. One of the hallmarks of spring for Christians is Easter, signifying another type of rebirth. During these dark days of the Covid-19 pandemic the essence of Easter can give us hope that may be hard to find elsewhere. My faith has been strengthened during my years of isolation due to chemical sensitivities. Being removed from the rituals associated with formal religious observances may give other folks a chance to be quiet, look inward, and find that spiritual resource that will help them to cope with this new reality. That's what I would wish for them anyway. That may be hard to accomplish in homes full of energetic young children however!
There's traditionally a tulip festival in our valley for the whole month of April. Tulips as far as the eye can see for a few precious weeks of the year. The fields and the flowers are still there but we can't leave our vehicles to enjoy the display gardens as we have in the past.
One of the growers have been cutting the blooms they would normally be selling to locals and visitors and delivering them to area nursing homes and hospitals. Gotta love that kind of generosity. It's these times of trial when the best of humanity can come forward - or not. I'm so grateful for those who choose to show compassion and kindness. I hope we come out on the other side of this pandemic better people all around. In the meantime I wish all my readers, my friends, a joyous Easter season wherever you may be and however you celebrate.
The Easter like no other, and what joy those tulip blooms would bring to anyone in a rest home or hospital. Down here, no travel, so roads are quiet, I have not read of an accident so far, this morning heavy rain and a very dark grey sky tree branches blowing in the wind, and Easter Services would be online or video. Hoping for you and all your family, safe days.
ReplyDeleteThat's a lovely gesture by the tulip growers.
ReplyDeleteHappy Easter to you.
Isolation makes people turn inwards a bit, doesn't it? Those who have spiritual resources, whether religious or relating to personal fulfilment, seem to deal with the separation better. As one who is normally semi-isolated (as opposed to your full isolation), I'm not finding it at all arduous. That said, how about another conversation – sooner rather than later?
ReplyDeleteThe tulips are beautiful even when viewed from afar. Thanks for sharing them Sue!
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