2023 Spring Reflection There are few things in the natural world more beautiful and delightful than flowers, especially after a long, cold, dreary winter. Bright daffodils and tulips are often the first to bring a spark of color back into the world after the grayness of winter. But as summer approaches, we’re often tempted to forget the beauty that still surrounds us. However, as spring and eventually summer march on, God continues to display his artistry through His creation. Lavender and lilies, peonies and hydrangeas, roses and geraniums all join the array. The uniqueness found among the flowers is incredible!This wonder of creation did not go unnoticed by St. Therese of Lisieux. She wrote in her autobiography. “The splendor of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not rob the little violet of its scent nor the daisy of its simple charm. I realized that if every tiny flower wanted to be a rose, spring would lose its loveliness and there would be no wild flowers to make the meadows gay.” Surely St. Therese is right: the world would be a much duller place without the uniqueness of the flowers.If every bloom were a rose, think of all we would be left without. The delicate petals of orchids. The dazzling colors of zinnias. The simplicity of daisies. All of this, and so much more, would be lost, had God decided that roses were superior.Without a doubt, the same is true for us as God’s creation. God created you to bring a particular beauty into this world. Just as God lovingly chose each petal and color for the flowers, He thoughtfully crafted your body and soul. He fashioned you to bring delight, just as the flowers bring us delight. As Scripture says, “He will rejoice over you with gladness. He will bring you quietness with His love. He will delight in you with shouts of joy.” Oh, the wonder you bring to this world, that the God of all creation delights in you!And what’s more, He is authoring your story to bring about your own blooming and flourishing. Just as the flowers wait through the dark and dreary winter until just the right moment to bring forth their colors, so we too often wait through darkness and drudgery before our appointed time to bloom. God works in all of it, the coldness of winter and the refreshment of spring, to use our created beauty to bring joy to the world.Let us not forget the beauty He has given us, redeemed in us, and uses for His glory!Written by: Tatianna Kigyos- Retreat Staff