Flower of the Linden Tree

In a recent trip to Europe, I was introduced to the Linden Tree: A handsome hardwood which slowly grows into a crown of saw-toothed heart shaped leaves, at maturity as much as 80 to 140 feet tall.

The trees that I saw have an interesting way of surviving.  If a limb is broken or trunk suffers major damage, it doesn't die but new growth emerges from the wound. From the old growth nutrition is still offered to the new growth.  This feature results in deep scars and a misshapened appearance of trunk and limbs, but an amazingly hearty and resilient creation.   

The Linden also has an interesting blossom. From a stem attached to the underside of the heart-shaped leaf grows a burst of white pedals.   This flower seemingly remains sheltered by the leaf until the moment in growth is right to peek out, then reach out for life giving beams of sun.

Reflecting upon this during Lent, this plant seems to offer a metaphor, a message as though the hand of God protects the emerging bloom until time to blossom.  And continues to provide abundant nutrition and options throughout hardships of life.

In my gallery I add, from my sketchbook, my rendering of the Linden Tree leaf and blossom with wishes for a blessed Easter and Passover and promise of the season for a life fullfilled.

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