The Hellebore

Here is an invitation from Paul:

‘ But we all, you and me, with open faces beholding/ thoroughly holding/ seeing as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.’

(old English behold = bihalden.

bi- thoroughly, halden- to hold)

This is not instantaneous, it is gradual, daily and progressive. It involves meditating on Scripture, contemplating the life of Christ, and practicing the presence of God. Another way of saying it is see and be thoroughly held by Christ’s sacrifice and God’s glory in His law.

Why draw? Why put it into words? Why take time with it?

A Hellebore!

They are called Christmas rose and winter rose and Lenten rose

BUT

they are not closely related to the rose family at all!

Many Helleboreae species are poisonous

Their petals are sepals and last for months

Their petals are modified to hold nectar

The flower colour range is extensive from slate grey, near black to deep purple and plum, through rich red and pink to yellow, white and green.

As the flower ages it is usual for it to become green inside and out.

Each sepal may be marked with veins, dotted or blotched with pink, red or purple.

And

a picotee hellebore is special. Why? Look at those pale coloured sepals with narrow dark margins others have darker petals which contrast with the outer sepals.

Why look at a plant why be thoroughly held?

By looking you appreciate, by appreciating you change.

Awe fills you not hate.

Respect fills you and the world is a better place for you and nature.

Take care,

Sandy 🙂

‘ The liveness in me just loves to feel the liveness in growing things, in grass and rain and leaves and flowers and sun and feathers and furs and earth and sand and moss.’

Emily Carr 1871 – 1945 ( She is considered to be a Canadian national treasure as an artist and writer and her work is still in demand.)