Fireweed is an interesting thing. It is the summer season barometer for Alaska. When it first blooms in July we know summer is half over and we pretend not to see the blooms amongst the daises and other wild flowers. When the blooms turn to seed pods we know fall is only moments away, and when the pods are blown into cottony seeds, summer is only a memory and winter is creeping in from the north.
On my daily walks I tend to keep an eye on the fireweed, trying to gauge how much longer I have to do all the things I planned to do this summer and never got finished...or started. Often I think of all my life plans that I have put on hold or dropped and never picked up again. The result of these musings is usually panic, but this year I am feeling differently about it all. I hardly noticed the fireweed in its season telling phases. Instead I have enjoyed my ramblings and talks with my sister, Masha. At first I didn't know what it was I was feeling instead of the usual panic, and then I realized what it was: contentment! Why this year? Maybe it's because I'm finally past that age of competing with life, maybe because I'm less driven and more relaxed, maybe it's because I'm to become a grandmother this winter and I'm looking forward to that event. Whatever the reason, I'm basking in it!
Paul tells the Philippians, "Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned to be content" (Philippians 4:11 NLT). I have never been in need, but often in "want" of many things and anxious about them. I remember being discontent, but when did I learn the lesson of contentment? At what moment did the lesson sink in? I would guess it was a slow growing process that I may face again, but in any case, I am glad it did finally sink in. Life is good...fireweed and all!
2 comments:
Fire Weed...what a beautiful curse! I must say that the first sight of this pretty yet dreaded flower left me feeling anxious yet hopeful about the long winter months ahead. I cannot help but feel a bit discouraged with at the onset of this particular weed as it solidifies the passing of another all to short summer. However, I cannot help but feel hopeful about the looming winter months as I anticipate the prospects this new season holds. Although I usually view winter as a harsh and foreboding season, I find that like you, this summer, that little purple flower with its promise of winter, brings me much comfort.
Hello Auntie Melanya! My mom passed on your blog to me. How fun! I just started a blog this year too and I must say there is something satisfyingly reckless about leaving your thoughts out for the world to see.
My parents and I just got back from Yellowstone where the fireweed has a different meaning. There it is the promise of new life in the midst of utter destruction. Isn't it just like God to use His creation to speak to us in different ways?
-Laura
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