This is another simple story about a plant I admire and find beautiful.
Here grows a thicket of blooms beside the barn that I pass each day as I head toward Luna’s paddock.
My lineage is Irish, Scottish and English. The emblem of Scotland is one I have always found enchanting.
The thistle represents overcoming adversity and difficult situations.
It is a symbol of resilience.
The plant itself is beautiful and a formidable adversary to those that wish it harm. It also provides sustenance for pollinators and birds and is used in certain medicines.
Nature’s prickliest flower, the thistle is ubiquitous in Scotland where it is the national symbol. Known for its roughness and ability to thrive in harsh conditions. It is rich in history and symbolism.
In the Celtic regions, the thistle represents devotion, bravery, determination and strength.
According to Scottish legend, a slumbering group of Scottish warriors were unaware that their enemy, the Norse army, were nearby. Suddenly, one of the Norsemen stepped on a thistle and cried out, giving away the surprise of the attack. As a result, the thistle was exalted for protecting the army and thus became an important national symbol.
As summer wanes, the blossoms dry creating soft puffs laden with seeds for the sparrows and wrens. It has been a delight watching these striking plants grow throughout this season.
I have identified four varieties of honeybees, with the help of a professor at the University of Nebraska, who is logging the Western Honeybee count in our region.
CONTEMPLATIONS
As I researched the thistle, I found myself being nudged by how Nature might be inspiring me to look inward. Which qualities do I embody? I have asked myself these same questions.
I invite you to explore………
- Where in your life have you faced adversity with determination and found the strength to do what you might have viewed as too difficult?
- To what principle, person, or animal have you been devoted?
- Where have you shown unexpected resilience?
- Where have you thrived in harsh conditions?
- Does the world see a beautiful but prickly exterior when inside you have a tender interior?
- What is the face you show to the world?
- Is there a part of you that is brave?
REFLECTIONS
I was surprised to remember times in my life when I have embodied the qualities of Thistle.
I imagine, dear reader, that you might find the same in yourself.
If you do, I welcome a comment, private email or text.
Stories & Pictures 
I LOVE THIS!!!!! All of it: the photos, the history (how cool!), the fact that it is part of your daily life, and the questions it sparks….It will be fun to sit with….Thank you!
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what an interesting, thoughtful exploration of the lowly thistle! I loved this, Elizabeth! The questions are very meaningful and provocative. I have a feeling your heart smiles each time you walk by those thistles to Luna’s paddock!
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Dear Miss J & M
thank you, once again for your comments. I know you have found strengths inside yourself and have persevered in very difficult times. I applaud those and many other qualities you embody.
Love E
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