Shari's Sentiments

The palm however, has been a symbol of strength and stability. Growing tall, arms stretched out toward the sun. Yes, they are tropical plants and they do very well in warm, humid, sunny areas. I know I have owned many potted palms the last few years. And it seems that each year as the cold dark winter months lingered my palms slowly weakened and never returned to life. I was sad. I wanted to nourish them and care for them until again they could return to the warm sun and take their place on the patio outside. It seems this year I may be able to do this. I may actually get to see them thrive once again. Even though the outer fronds are getting withered and brown – there are still strong, fresh green shoots growing from the middle (heart) of the plant; Still willing to live and grow.

 This seems so fitting to this Sunday – Palm Sunday – the palm has been cited in the Bible as a symbol of triumph and victory, strength and prosperity. As we enter into this week – Easter week – again we are reminded of so much praise, pain, death and new life. Palm Sunday traditionally is filled with praise songs and ‘Hosannas’ and ‘Hallelujiahs’ and the week continues as Thursday turns cold, dark and painful. Saturday seems to linger and we are reminded of the price paid so long ago. We, in a bittersweet mood, dye Easter eggs and fill baskets with candy and lay out our Sunday bonnets. Now that I think of Easters as a child, it all seems so strange. But I also know that along with the cycles of the seasons and the seasons of life – Easter is a time of renewal. And even though today is a day of great rejoicing and victory. Just like my withered palm trees – new life will spring forth. Through the darkness, sadness and pain – there is hope. Just like my palms – I, we can stretch our hands high in praise and thanks. We can shout ‘Hosanna!’ We can sing ‘Hallelujiah’. For we again can remember the promise of new life and forgiveness.