“I smell the white roses sweet-scented and growing.” ~ Walt Whitman
Good Sunday morning, beautiful souls. I hope this finds you well and happy this winter morning. We have just a light dusting of snow, enough to be pretty. So, you may be wondering, “Why is she writing about roses?” 
“Love is the only thing in this whole universe, that can make the roses grow out of the swords.” ~
My thoughts, of course, are on our Presidential Inauguration. As you know, this has always been a joyful and celebrated time in our country. A dignified event and a gleaming star of our democracy. In dreaming of a perfect day for this grand event, I began to think about a flower that could symbolize such an occasion. My mind went immediately to the white rose. Why the white rose? Because the white rose is an ancient symbol of love and peace. White roses also symbolize feelings of friendship, peace, respect, and hope. All are attitudes of love and decency, which we pray to once again enjoy in America.
“Peace cannot be achieved through violence, it can only be attained through understanding.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Dear friends, as we approach this most special day, my heart is heavy with concern. I can not begin to tell you how many times throughout the years I have read the following words, nor how many times I have read them in the past few days. They are always a comfort to me. The words remind me to think good thoughts and pray for a wonderful day and safety for everyone.
“Whatsoever things are true,
Whatsoever things are honest,
Whatsoever things are just,
Whatsoever things are pure,
Whatsoever things are lovely,
Whatsoever things are of good report,
If there be any virtue, and if there be any praise,
Think on these things.”
Philippians 4:8
Please know I wish you and yours a beautiful day.
And. . .
In the days ahead, may we see peace and goodness across our land. As well as, many white roses.
Stay well!
“.. .I will dwell on all the angels singing, putting love and truth in my heart and in the words I speak.” ~ Alexandra Stoddard
Amour,
Sandra
Images: Pinterest
Wonderful roses! That Bible verse is one of my favorites. God bless America.
Dear friend, thank you. We so need your prayers. Wishing you a beautiful day. ❤
The white roses are so lovely.
Philippians 4:8 is also a very meaningful scripture to me.
I am praying for our nation. May we all seek God to guide our thoughts, words, and actions. May our leaders seek God and His wisdom.
I agree, Bonnie. Wishing you a lovely day.
The white roses are beautiful, Sandra and I love the scripture you shared. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 Wishing you a lovely Sunday ♥️
Dear Pam, thank you. Wishing you and yours a beautiful day. ❤
My heart is heavy with concern too. Loads of prayer this week. The roses are beautiful. And a fitting metaphor for our dreams.
Thanks, Jeanie. I don’t believe I ever wanted to see days move as quickly as I do the next few. You are so right – “Loads of prayers.” Have a lovely day, my friend.
Amen. xo
Have a lovely day, Penny.
A beautiful post this morning Sandra and I particularly love the quote of commitment by Alexandra Stoddard and certainly share it with you and everyone we know. This will be an anxious week for all of us and I pray that everyone will stay home, stay safe and enjoy the inauguration.
Louise, my friend, I agree with your every word. I, too, loved the words of Alexandra Stoddard, truly words of love and kindness. I so thank you for your visit and love your always thoughtful comments. Wishing you a lovely day and I know you join me in praying for a peaceful week.
Beautiful roses and know that your northern neighbours are hoping and praying for the very best for your country.
Good morning, Lorrie. Thank you for your kind words and so much for your prayers. These are tense times. Have a great week.
White roses would be a perfect symbol, Sandra.
In spite of everything, the Inauguration itself was beautiful and so moving. I felt it even as we watched up here in Canada. I felt joy and hope when I listened to that amazing young poet, Amanda Gorman, as she shared her astonishing, beautiful piece. I have read it and watched the video clip of her reading it several times since then.
Those words you shared from Philippians are some of my favourites.
Hello, Brenda. Yes, the Inauguration was beautiful. It was the joy it has always been, even though there were not the normal festivities it was glorious and for so, so many reasons. Amanda Gorman is truly a rare talent and the world will certainly hear more from her. I do pray for a better world with help from our new leader. He was almost giddy when he talked about his conversation with your Prime Minister and how much he has always thought of him and your beautiful country. Brenda, thank you for your wonderful support throughout this dreadful mess in our country. It is a blessing to know we have many friends in Canada. Wishing you a wonderful day and week ahead.❤