Morning Glories

Morning Glories

by Sharron K. Cosby

 

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God”

(1 Corinthians 10:31, NIV).

 

My husband built a large garden box and planted morning glory seeds. We’ve enjoyed watching the seeds sprout and send their vines along the chicken wire trellis. To my surprise, a solitary bloom appeared. In its center was a five-pointed star.

I Googled “morning glory” and discovered several facts. There are over a thousand species. Their colors vary from delicate white or pink to vibrant purple, blue, or red. Some are poisonous, others produce hallucinogenic effects like LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide). A few varieties are edible and are harvested for food. For centuries, Chinese herbalists used the seeds for their laxative properties. The plant gets its name from the time of day at which it blooms—morning. As the day progresses, it closes.

Writers resemble morning glories in the following ways:

• In our writing circles we meet people of various races, backgrounds, and beliefs. This diversity creates interest among our writing comrades and brings a rainbow of stories, perspectives, and interpretations we might otherwise miss.
• The morning glory can climb trellises, trees, fences, and everything in between. It reaches upward to the sun. Likewise, most of us reach upward to learn the craft and to expand our circles of influence. We rub elbows at conferences with best-selling authors and those who are beginning on their journey. We learn together, pro and novice, linking arms to become better writers.
• Some varieties of this plant are noxious. Unfortunately, we’ll encounter toxic folks as we pursue a writing career. Not everyone wants us to reach our goals. But like the morning glory, we needn’t be deterred. Instead of allowing others to poison us with defeat, we can keep growing.
• Like these brilliant flowers, your creativity may bloom at a specific time of day. Is morning your best writing time or do you come alive when the sun goes down? No matter your preference, write when the glory of word-craft shines brightest for you.
• As these flowers provide medicinal benefits, our words may have healing properties. “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver” (Proverbs 25:11 ESV).

The next time you see a vine of morning glories, recall our similarities. Don’t fear blooming where you’re planted. Reach for the sun.

Father, may my words entwine with yours, reaching upward to bring you glory. Amen.

 

 

 

Sharron Cosby is a proud Alabama native transplanted in the sands of Florida. Sharron is an award-winning author and loves speaking to groups on her family’s journey through addiction, although she can address other topics. Her book, Praying for Your Addicted Loved One: 90 in 90, is a devotional for families who love an addict. Connect with Sharron at www.SharronCosby.com