A Thorn, A Rose

I had a lovely run but mostly walk  a few days ago. It really felt like the first day of spring and it got me excited since I've been craving warmer weather, sandal wearing, lighter clothing for some time. This relaxing walk also was one of the best in over a week with other things taking over my time to do so. I could finally process, enjoy, make time for inspiration. While walking I noticed how some of the most beautiful flowers and one of my favorites will not be in bloom for some time due to pruning. It is necessary for this to happen so the roses can grow and bloom better when the right time allows. This immediately made me think about life, and particularly what I'm going through, how there is the right time to bloom, grow, and develop, but sometimes before the results showcase themselves, there is a waiting season, an unknown period, and or suffering.

I couldn't help but relate this to Jesus's sufferings on the cross as well. He had a crown of thorns placed on his head, that pierced his head, but also his heart. One of my favorite images and prayers is to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and this image displays his heart burning like a furnace with a crown of thorns around it. The 3rd sorrowful mystery The Crown of Thorns has its own virtues that are linked with it. I think of humility, as this severe suffering of Jesus was related to mockery and scorn of being King. But there is also hope, because with suffering comes its own beauty, revelations, virtue and intimacy with Jesus's as well as his divine plan for our lives. Just like calm after a storm, a rose blooms and grows with its thorns.

I can easily recall the last few years and their own set of thorns, sufferings, and new challenges to keep hope, faith, as well as inspiration to lighten my mood, my heart, and see the silver lining. 2 years ago, I was beginning the journey of taking classes and starting a new path. It was exciting and interesting but also had its share of uncertainties, waiting, and trust. Or when there was so much interior gusto to graduate college and begin post grad, having a peaceful waiting period was hard.

There is so much encouragement, and spiritual inspiration in scripture which is ultimately what helps me to endure trials, or seasons of unknowns and waiting. I love Jeremiah 29:11, Psalm 119 came to me the other day and spoke to my heart, and another one that came to me is 2 Corinthians:
'Therefore, so that I would not become arrogant, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to trouble me- so that I would not become arrogant. I asked the Lord three times about this, that it would depart from me. But he said to me, 'My grace is enough for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness' So then, I will boast most gladly about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may reside in me.'