We can look around and see many marvels in creation, but, as a flower lover, I think one of the most fabulous ones is the Soldenelle flower. (Scientific name Soldenella alpina.) I have only seen pictures and read about it, but if I ever do see one I will salute it.
What looks like a little fragile flower turns into a picture of strength and determination. In order to survive, it performs several amazing acts. Growing on the cold mountainsides of European mountains is only the beginning. During the Soldenelle blooming season, the mountainsides are still covered with patches of crusty snow laced with icy borders. By God’s design, when most of the ground is still unthawed, this flower finds its way through the most difficult conditions to grace the mountainside with a carpet of white to purple blooms.
If we were to back up six or seven months, we would see the leaves of the Soldenelle plant spread out flat against the mountainside, absorbing every bit of the summer rays the sun would give them. This amazing plant then keeps this heat stored in its roots throughout the winter.
When spring comes and the earth begins to wake up, the Soldenelle knows its nap is over too. It’s time to sprout, and the warmth that’s been stored in its roots all winter moves upward, forming a small dome in the snow and ice. The head of the emerging sprout will fit perfectly into the protective dome. Amazingly, the sprout emerges unscathed and now the flower can start forming within the walls of the dome’s protection. Soon, large patches of flowers will claim their rights on the glimmering, white mountainside.
What an example of strength this little flower is as it faces life under these difficult conditions. Instead of looking to others that can often disappoint us, we aught to look around us – at God’s creation for our inspiration. How many of these wondrous living things has He given us to inspire and encourage us – yet we barely notice? If something in God’s creation gives you special inspiration or encouragement, please share and let us all be blessed.
Whatever difficulty we are facing today – whether it be financial instability, relationship difficulties, unemployment, addictions, grief, health issues, or any number of obstacles – let’s remember what this little flower is trying to teach us. Let’s push forth with determination and be the best we can be. It could be that we just might become a blessing to someone else along the way – just as the flower is to those that gaze upon the Alps in spring.
