Wait till you see my “last rose of summer”

My rose bushes have dwindled greatly over the years.

Some due to neglect.

Some due to the deer.

Some due to increased shade.

But I have one rose, a tea rose, that has defied the odds.  I planted it years ago and it never did anything. Then about three years ago it started to bloom. This was about the same time I knew my mom was “not herself”. Every year I gave her the last rose of the summer because it was always the most magnificent one.

This is the second fall since she has been gone and I didn’t think my rose was going to bloom this year. But yesterday I walked out on the deck and there she was, more beautiful than ever. Of course, it was bittersweet. The first thing I would have done is cut that rose and take it to my mom.

Instead, I cried.

Then I cut the rose and brought it in the house.

Every time I look at it, I think of her. She thought I was an amazing gardener.

And for a while, I was.

Because I can’t give it to her,  I thought I would share my rose with all of you. If I could bottle up its smell and send it across the computer, I would. Alas, you’ll just have to imagine.

God bless and have a great day.

Rebecca

Hi. I'm so glad you're here. My blog focuses on faith and mental health issues such as mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and dysthymia (chronic low moods that don't qualify as depression.) I post DIY and decorating projects when I can. My book, "Depression Has A Big Voice. Make Yours Bigger! (Expanded Edition), is on sale at all online retailers. I have a Psychology degree and post-graduate courses in Clinical Pastoral Education. I am a former hospital chaplain, Bible teacher, and retreat/conference inspirational speaker. Thank you for visiting and may you feel God's presence today.

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