Something that never ceases to amaze me is the ability of nature to produce so many beautiful things. Recently I went to the Philadelphia Flower Show and I was astounded by what was able to grow from just three simple things; a seed, soil, and water. I walked into the room at the convention center and the vibrant colors, supple textures, and soft fragrances enveloped me, much to my surprise. I will admit that before I attended the Flower Show I had a rather strong distaste for flowers. I do not usually like the smell of flowers, except for lavender, and I typically find that I enjoy discovering beauty in nontraditional sources. While I was there I was able to see hundreds of elaborate displays by people who turn flowers into an art form, and after having conversations with several of them I have gained a new appreciation for things that are more traditional in their beauty. Like a sculptor with a fresh piece of clay, these artists spend extraordinary amounts of time caring for their living works of art… and perhaps, the creators of these floral displays have an even more unique gift than the sculptor because they have the capacity to work all the while knowing that they have no real control over the outcome. Although the florist plants the seeds, it is up to nature to decide what will become of the creation.
The Philly Flower Show is the best sensory overload ever...I have worked for a florist, a gifted artist, on and off since I was in high school. It is still the only job I have ever had that has come close to teaching in its creativity, joy and get-your-hands-dirty-and-be-close-to-heaven status, in my mind. If you ever wonder if there is a god, check out a rose up close. BAM
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