Daylilies and Nettles

Dee has over seventy varieties of daylilies in her flower gardens. At a distance they form a panoramic display of color. Up close they are even prettier. Each variety has its own distinct color, shape, and size. These daylilies bring beauty to our property and when cut and placed in a vase, bring beauty to our home. Unfortunately, a daylily flower only last for a day. You probably already guessed that from the name. It took me longer. Some people are like daylilies. At a distance, they bring joy. But when you get to know them personally, they bring even greater joy. You are happier even if you are only with them for a short time.

There is another plant on our property which does not bring any joy to those who are around it. A short trip to the woods behind the house will bring you in contact with an abundance of nettles. Any beauty the nettle possesses, and I’m sure other nettles think they are grand to behold, is quickly dispelled as soon as it touches you. The initial touch stings. And then it irritates the skin. Nettles can pretty much make a person miserable. Some people are like nettles. The more you are around them, the more irritating they become. Sadly, all of us act like nettles periodically.

Nettles and daylilies don’t have a choice as to what they are. They are genetically engineered to be one or the other. People, however, have a choice. They can be an irritant to others or they can bring great beauty to all to see them.