Photo was taken yesterday at Seskin, Bantry, West Cork (Irl)

This is the willow flower and is coming into flower already. It is a very valuable source of pollen and nectar for our bees. It is a tree that does not grow hugely tall and so is very suitable for most gardens. The bees and bumblebees in your area will really appreciate its flowers at this time of year.

Thought on Sunday – March – 27/03/2022

The Gentle Unfolding of Lent

We are all delighted with this beautiful sunny spring weather that we are getting at the moment. While out for a walk yesterday I could not help but notice how the leaves are beginning to unfold including the horsechestnut tree. Spring is very much unfolding before us.

The buds of the horsechestnut are always very pronounced. They have a sticky propolis around them to protect what is within. This protection has been going on for some time. But the buds must let go, to allow the leaf to unfold and develop. It is a slow process and is never rushed or hurried.

It is the same with our journey through Lent. It is a gentle and slow unfolding. We allow the love of God, to touch our lives. We don’t suddenly burst into new life. It is gradual, it is gentle but it is happening quietly. May the remaining weeks of Lent allow you to unfold into the beautiful person God has created you to be.