The Promise of the Poinsettia
It’s that time of year, when traditionally many homes purchase a poinsettia to brighten a room with Christmas cheer. In years past, the nursery I worked at would host “big doings” during the holiday season. We sold Christmas trees, wreaths, garland and all of the trimmings. A manger scene was set up with live goats, sheep and a donkey. School groups would arrive wrapped up and ready for hayrides, hot cider and storytelling.
After spending most of the year submerged in the hectic business of landscape design, this change of scenery and pace was always welcome. It was enjoyable helping customers pick out “just the right tree” and a maybe a few gifts or ornaments from the shop.
Being a part of the storytelling team was a highlight for me; after a hayride and petting the animals, the kids were ready to sit fairly quietly, sip some hot cider and listen to a few Christmas legends. One of my personal favorites was the legend of the poinsettia, which is as follows:
In Mexico there was a tradition at Christmas time to present offerings to the church in celebration of the birth of Jesus. These offerings might range from gold and silver coins or beautiful fabric to a chicken, goat, tea or other food item. One boy, whose family was very poor, had nothing to give. His clothes were ragged and there was hardly enough food for his family, let alone any to give away. There was simply nothing to spare that he could offer for the celebration of baby Jesus. As his family walked to church, the boy noticed some weeds growing alongside the dusty pathway. In desperation for a gift he plucked the weeds, brought them to church and set the dusty bundle on the altar.
The boy’s heart was heavy as he gazed at the colored fabrics, shiny coins and prime selections of food in comparison to his gift. Some people were even making fun of the boy in ragged clothes laying weeds upon the altar. Yet as he prepared to join his family for the service he was amazed when the small bundle of weeds began to change. Brown branches transformed into lustrous green stems and dusty, shriveled leaves became a profusion of brilliant red foliage. A smile of gratitude crossed the young boy’s face as he realized God was pleased with his gift. Everyone in the church that day was reminded of a plain and simple ideal; it’s not the gift itself that counts but the thought and love behind it.
For many of us, by the time December 25th arrives, the poinsettia isn’t looking so great. A few tips to help keep it from becoming a dried up weed – don’t place it near heat sources (television., heat vents, fireplace or woodstove) and maintain a regular watering schedule to keep the roots moist but not wet.
As the 'colorscape' outside winds down to shades of brown and gray, a bright poinsettia brought into our homes can add vibrancy to the beginning of winter. Their are a multitude of varieties to choose from, with names reflecting the range of colors available - 'Ice Punch', 'Golden Glow', 'Polar Bear', 'Marble', Jingle Bell' and 'Red Glitter'. The story behind this beautiful plant also reminds me of the promise of the upcoming holiday season - an opportunity to express thoughtfulness and love... for our families and friends, as well as those in the world beyond our immediate circle.