My amazing wife, Mary Anna, did it again. She inspired me with a beautifully refreshing idea that soon became the motivation for this week’s column.
Last week she set before me at our lunch table a small vase of Lilies of the Valley fresh from our garden. I couldn’t resist taking the attached photo of them. And the more I looked at those tiny bell-shaped blossoms, the more a line from William Hays’ hope-affirming 1881 hymn echoed in my mind and heart: “He’s the Lily of the Valley, the Bright and Morning Star.”
I had to admit I didn’t know much about that flower, so I took this as an invitation to do some research. Sure enough, just checking into their symbolism was most rewarding. Over the centuries, they have become associated with love, joy, hope and happiness. Indeed, they were the late Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite flower, and quickly, were becoming one of my own.
It soon became apparent in my random conversations around Cochrane this past weekend that many folks treasure this amazing blossom. For example, as Mary Anna and I were walking through downtown Cochrane, a stranger inquired into what thoughts we might have that day. When I mentioned we were thinking about the Lily of the Valley, she excitedly responded, “Oh, that was my mother’s favourite flower!”
A major factor in their positive reputation is their role as heralds of spring. From my perspective, however, the timing of those blossoms at my table couldn’t have been better for another reason, for which I’m adding the number “61” as a very special symbol.
Why 61? Well, 61 years ago this Saturday, I had the honour of becoming the husband of the personification of the Lily of the Valley’s loving qualities.
Happy 61st Anniversary, Mary Anna! I’m so glad you’re my wife. To me, you have been the personal expression of the Lily of the Valley, for whom I will ever be thanking my Heavenly Lily of the Valley.
© 2024 Warren Harbeck
