I, like many Americans am feeling the impact of this down economy. At the same time, I know it's important to keep my thoughts focused on what I want and to avoid worry. I have gained some solace by looking to nature for answers. My friend Rev. Ahman just gave me a copy of A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle. The first few pages of the book are dedicated to the evolution of life on our planet. Tolle notes that the color and fragrance of flowers are a symbol of the invisible realm. He writes, "As the consciousness of human beings developed, flowers were most likely the first thing they came to value that had no utilitarian purpose for them, that is to say, was not linked in some way to survival. They provided inspiration to countless artists, poets, and mystics." So, in honor of acknowledging the unseen force that created flowers; the force that moves up through the soil and causes a flower to bloom, I clipped these lilies from my garden and placed them in a vase that my brother gave me in celebration of my open house two years ago. If I take time to notice, the flower and the vase together remind me of hope and right now, that's the kind of reminder I need the most.