Undying Love

In the language of flowers, red tulips mean undying love.  Country artist George Jones died recently and a friend noted his death by referencing his famous song "He Stopped Loving Her Today" about a man who said he'd love a woman forever- but finally "stopped" the day he died. I disagree.  Love transcends death.  I am filled with the love of those who are no longer on this earth just as I believe my love will fill the hearts of those I leave behind when I die. This benediction of love is our source of grace and courage. And- like the perennial tulip in our garden- it remains deep within us, ready to bloom again and again- despite the darkest, coldest winters.  Do you want to leave a lasting legacy?  Plant love.  Happy 30th anniversary, Jay. Thank you for my garden.

Inch by inch, row by row
Gonna make this garden grow
All it takes is a rake and a hoe
And a piece of fertile ground

Inch by inch, row by row
Someone bless these seeds I sow
Someone warm them from below
Till the rain comes tumbling down

Pulling weeds and picking stones
Man is made of dreams and bones
Feel the need to grow my own
Cause the time is close at hand

Grain for grain, sun and rain
Find my way in nature's chain

Tune my body and my brain
To the music from the land

Plant your rows straight and long
Temper them with prayer and song
Mother Earth will make you strong
If you give her love and care 

                                        Arlo Guthrie