The prolific Catholic writer, the Reverend Francis Xavier Lasance (b. 1860- d. 1946), published an interesting prayer book in 1908 which has been quite popular since its first printing. This book is titled My Prayer Book, Happiness in Goodness, and I find it interesting because it is not only filled with Catholic prayers, but it also contains many quotes from various Catholic writers of which Fr. Lasance collected. So, I am going to start a new little thread of posts sharing these quotes. Today, I am sharing one which Father printed regarding what the love of flowers tells us about a person:
“I have always noticed that wherever you find flowers, no matter whether in a garret or in palace, it is a pretty sure sign that there is an inner refinement of which the world is not cognizant. I have seen flowers cultivated and cherished by some of the lowest and poorest of our people. Where these emblems of purity are found, you may rest assured that they represent a hope, and speak of a goodness of heart not to be found where they are absent.” ~#30, My Prayer Book, Fr. F. X. Lasance
I am struck by the idea of the “absence” of flowers, and what that means. It causes one to think.
Let’s plant and cultivate flowers as we are able. I notice that in the writings of Caryll Houselander she is always speaking about flowers, but that will have to be for another post.
May you have a good day, in your land of flowers.
Top image: Fr. F. X. Lasance, source.
~After this post was completed, I came upon a The Catholic World Report post which delves into the life of Fr. Lasance, which was a life characterized by much suffering and physical ailments. It may be read here.
