Red Roses and the Victorians

This is what's going on in our back yard today. Yes, I know it's mid-November, but the day is bright and sunny with fluffy white clouds, and the roses seem to be on their own calendar.

There are some different colors of roses opening up, but I was reminded that in the Victorian era flowers had meanings associated with them, and the associations with red roses are especially heartwarming: Love. Respect. Beauty.

In the wake of the election results, we need to be mindful of all of those who feel vulnerable to the the bigotry that is finding ever freer expression.  Let's pray that those who have mean spirits and hatred in their hearts, those who too easily dismiss or ignore the hardship of others, can open up their hearts to love, respect, and beauty.

And while standing up for others, let's offer love, respect, and beauty at every turn of the road. Our culture is in dire need of these right now.