Reflections on the Earth
It was late afternoon on a summer day when I saw these flowers at a farmer’s market. The spectacular lushness and passionate vermillion color of the Dahlias represented a visual reminder that beauty in nature is a reflection of the divine. Yet red can be associated with the color of blood and burning fire, and it is also a symbol of guilt, pain and anger. I have worked in war zones, and after the 2004 Asian tsunami taught digital photography to children in Banda Aceh, Indonesia and Southern Thailand. I have seen massive natural destruction and the scarring results of war on populations. When I look at these stunning flowers bursting with life that were grown only to be cut down and grace our homes with their beauty, I am reminded to say thank you. I pray that people will appreciate, nurture and respect our earth’s bounty and all its inhabitants.
