J.M Barrie wrote: "God gave us memory so that we might have roses in December."
We are fortunate that here in beautiful South Mississippi we have not only memories but roses in the garden well into the winter months. For example, a couple of years ago I noted in my journal the following: "Here it is January 8 and yesterday when Johnie and I were out in the yard she showed me some beautiful pink, yellow and white miniature roses on the bushes in our rose beds."
A few years ago she talked with the famous horticulturist, Doctor Snodsmith, on a call-in radio show. After he had answered her question she added:
"Oh, and one other thing. I heard you tell the previous caller that she could stop fertilizing her roses in July. Why should she do that?"
"Because there is no need to fertilize after they have stopped blooming." He answered.
"But mine keep on blooming until Thanksgiving or longer. Is there any reason I should stop?"
"No mam. Whatever you're doing, Mrs. Watson, Keep on doing it."
This beautiful flower flourishes under the right conditions: sunshine, water, good soil, protection from harmful diseases, and proper nutrients. What a great analogy to human relationships. If you want your mate and your children to glow with the joy of living, offer each of them warmth, open communication, encouragement, and care. It is possible that you are already doing these things and your family is flourishing. If so, keep on doing what you are doing. If they are not blooming, now is the time to give them special attention.
Today is set aside to show our love and appreciation for our mothers. Express this to your mother personally then breathe a silent prayer for her well being. Okay?