Wilted Petals

Dear Readers,

When you look at a flower, there is so much you see, yet so much you don’t.

Sometimes, you see beautiful petals holding strong. Sometimes, you see petals wilting. Sometimes, you see color. Sometimes, you see bland, faded petals.

You see the condition of the flower, but you do not see how it got to where it is. Much of the flower remains a mystery.

When was it planted? How strong is the soil beneath it? When was the last time it rained? How much sun has it gotten? How cold has it been? Who is taking care of it?

You lack context.

The condition of the flower often depends on its circumstances and surroundings.

Oftentimes, we make judgements about others without understanding context.

If someone seems sad, distant, tired, confused, upset, or hurt, or even enthusiastic, excited, or joyful, you do not know where their state stems from. You can make assumptions, but you are not really sure why they are feeling, thinking, or acting the way they are.

Only they know, unless they tell you. You may be missing part of the story.

It can be important to give people grace, patience, and sympathy sometimes. You might not know or understand their circumstances.

Don’t judge a flower before you know the last time it rained.

Love,

Samantha