Charmed Life

Gretheline Genciana Ramos-Bolandrina

Flowers

"The earth laughs in flowers . . . flowers are food for the soul."

Sampaguita, (the Philippine National Flower, or Jasmine of the olive family, Oleaceae), as legend would have it, Princess Lakambini and Lakan Galing, a nobleman, once pledged eternal love to each other as he set off to defend her land. Sumpa kita (I promise you) they both said as they parted ways on a hilltop, not knowing it would be their final farewell. For Lakan Galing never returned. Heartbroken Lakambini died soon after and was buried on the same hilltop. A shrub with dark green leaves and white softly scented flowers grew out of her solitary grave. Its name evolved to Sampaguita, echoing the promise made by the lovers, a timeless testament, a symbol of devotion, fidelity and purity.

Flowers evoke emotions, of happiness, sadness, of celebrations and farewells. Tangible proofs of thoughtfulness, a perfect peace offering, a wish, goodwill. Scents of orchids and visions of bougainvillea stir my childhood memories of busy, happy summer vacations in Isabela with my grandparents. We've gone up and down numerous aisles and exhibits in Boston's Annual Flower show. Taking time to stop and not only smell but also touch the flowers. Jessica's vocabulary at 2, included "pretty" referring to colorful blooms in Grandma Tima's garden. I dream of one day picking tulips in Amsterdam. I adore Van Gogh's Sunflowers. Baguio's "Everlasting" have always intrigued me so. Even cactus blooms in the desert.

Ever press flowers in phone books? How about just tucking a hibiscus behind your ear? In the meadow somewhere, make Dandelion wreaths to adorn your hair, and blow when they turn white, just blow with all your might to take your worries away. Gladiola, my younger sister's name is after my Mom's favorite flower. Our third child is Lilly, though she was named in honor of Ms. Priscilla Sabinay, (Joe's Tita who died of cancer), some relatives say "Lily of the Valley" when they greet her. Not that her name defines her but she certainly has the tenacity and aggressiveness in being Lilly.

And a rose? by any other name? I'm partial to yellow ones, had them for my bouquets both for our civil and church weddings. As the fox said to the Little Prince, "Men have forgotten this truth, but you must not forget it. You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed. You are responsible for your rose..."

I was a bit sad just recently, Joe and the kids surprised me with a bouquet of red roses and various mums of autumn colors. Needless to say, it chased the blues away. Now, brighten your day or someone else's, be it a special occasion or just because, get or send a bunch or so. In parting, let me leave you this, from Joseph Addison "What sunshine is to flowers, smiles are to humanity. These are but trifles, to be sure; but, scattered along life's pathway, the good they do is inconceivable."

Feel free to e-mail me reactions, comments and or suggestions for ideas to ponder. Contact me at Gretheline@aol.com or through Carousel Productions.