Dandelions

11 May 2015

Dear Kerry,

While outside enjoying a pleasant afternoon, my son rushed to me, a big grin on his ruddy face. Clutched in his grubby fist was a bouquet that reminded me of gathered sunshine. “For you, Momma. I wuv you.”

I accepted his offering with a hug and a smile. He smelled of the outdoors and active playtime. I kissed the top of his sweaty head. “I love you, too, my little man.”

With a smile and a wave, he ran off to pursue another delight.

I strolled inside, filled a vase, and deposited the golden blooms. I washed sticky sap from my palms, and then placed the flowers at the center of my table. As I stepped back to admire the effect, I considered how few people appreciate dandelions. The persistent plants are weeded out, a bane to a perfect lawn. Their inclusion is viewed with disgust in suburban America.

Yet dandelion greens are high in potassium and vitamin C. They lend a distinctive flavor to salads. A dear friend crafts summertime wine from the plant. In days gone by, my girls and I wove wreaths of them and wore them in our hair. When they go to seed, dandelions make lovely fairy wands for granting wishes.

Besides, without dandelions, I wouldn’t have a daily bouquet from my little man.

As always, its a matter of perspective.

So smile on, sunshine, and gather your buds where you may. In even the humblest of creation is glory.

Kerry

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