Reflecting on how memory of certain flowers is interlaced with distinct moments in life, I acknowledge dogwood (Cornus florida):
Spring 2001, when we traveled with our younger son to Yosemite National Park – a time when abundant yellow-hued dogwood adorned the valley;
Spring 2002 and 2003, when a magnificent, wide-armed pink dogwood off Zayante Road in Felton became the favorite backdrop for seasonal family photos; and
Spring 2004, when, strolling along Robles Lane in Bonny Doon with my dear friend Laura (sadly lost to cancer), we came upon a single white dogwood tree, magically glowing in a shady grove of old redwood and spruce.
How apt that dogwood is known not only for its lovely flower bracts, but also for its hard, silica-free wood, which is used for weaver’s shuttles.
A dogwood is blooming in the garden just now. What will it interlink in memory? That Spring came very late in 2010. That its rose-colored blossoms were a joy to behold on those rainy-gray days in May.
This week’s image ~ Flowering Dogwood, Santa Cruz Mountains, California.
Thumbnail image ~ Dogwood of Zayante (detail), Felton, California.
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The dogwood in Zayante family photo session is quite bright in my memory. Maybe dogwood would help restore our mind faculties. Sitting under one in contemplation could be an illuminating experience, like the Buddha had sitting under the bodhi tree. You are a weaver of peace and heart softening songs.