The Freedom of Contentment:

Reflect on contentment today

The Wise Men, guided by the light of a distant star, carry with them not only gifts but also a deep sense of purpose and contentment in that purpose. Their journey, a harvest of Seneca and other ancient philosophers, is also the seed of wisdom of 1 Timothy 6:6-8, which reminds us that "godliness with contentment is great gain."

Let the field of marigolds become a symbol of abundance, not in material possessions but in the richness of spirit that contentment brings. Surrounded by the beauty of nature and the magnitude of their journey, this picture shows that contentment is not a passive state, but an active choice to embrace what we have, to find joy in the present, and to release the grip of unnecessary desires.

The Three Wise Men from the East presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. However, their most significant contribution as the first Gentiles to recognize Jesus as the Messiah may have been in leading Christians to Him.

Reflect on how accepting contentment can free you from the constant pursuit of more, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. Perhaps it's by finding satisfaction in simple pleasures, expressing gratitude for your blessings, or letting go of comparisons and the desire for excess. While these actions may appear small or insignificant, these markers point to His magnitude and a greater purpose.

Contentment invites us to live fully in each moment, to appreciate the journey rather than fixating on the destination. Embrace this freedom, allowing it to guide you towards a life of joy, balance, and harmony. Contentment is the vessel for a fulfilling life.

Merry Marigolds

Sowing

Marigolds do best when seeds are sown directly outdoors in late spring. Use well-draining soil and plant seeds about 1 inch deep. Temperatures between 60-75°F are ideal for growth.

Growing

Once established, marigolds need about 8-10 inches of space between each plant. They thrive in warm temperatures and prefer full sun with moist, well-drained soil.

DAD WAS HERE  👨🔧  What did the big marigold say to the little one? “Hey, bud!” 👨👦  

Winter Work

Marigolds are annuals and usually complete their life cycle before winter. However, you can collect and store seeds for planting next season, ensuring they are kept in a cool, dry place.

Looking Good

Marigolds add a bright and cheerful touch to bouquets, centerpieces, or wreaths, and are outstanding simply standing out in the garden.

Superpowers

This stunning flower is more than just a pretty face—it’s known for its pest-repelling properties and is often used as a companion plant to tomatoes, cucumbers, broccoli, carrots, and various herbs. Marigold petals are also edible, making any plate look great.

DAD WAS HERE  👨🔧  What did the big marigold say to the little one? “Hey, bud!” 👨👦  

There’s More!

In pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican societies, including the Aztec and Maya, marigolds—referred to as cempasúchil or sasuchi—were used to decorate their idols and religious figures. These striking flowers still hold great significance in cultural customs there, particularly during All Saints Day, also known as the Day of the Dead. During this time, marigolds are crafted into floral arches, garlands, and wreaths to adorn gravesites and home altars. Their vibrant hues and strong fragrance are thought to attract the spirits of the departed, creating a pathway for them to reunite with their loved ones.

The flower made its way to Europe in the 16th century. There, particularly among peasants who couldn't afford to offer coins, the flowers became a popular offering to the Virgin Mary, earning them the name "Mary's Gold." This tradition eventually evolved into the modern name "marigold."