Sunflowers Regenerate

Did you know sunflowers sometimes have multiple blooms? I knew some did but was surprised when different varieties began developing new blooms at the base of the leaves. I learned this lesson the hard way. There was one spectacular sunflower with a giant bud getting ready to bloom. Before it could bloom something broke the stem just below the bloom head. I watched it for weeks thinking it may survive; but watching the head droop more and more I became frustrated. Finally, I was convinced it was over and one morning when cleaning up the yard I broke the stem off at the base. Later that morning, I noticed the new buds forming at the base of the leaves all the way down the stalk. Needless to say I was devastated and haven't broken or uprooted a sunflower since. Happily, I've watched as new buds form at the base of the leaves after the initial bloom is gone.

I admit I mourned the loss of the original sunflower. It was a hard lesson. I missed multiple blessings by focusing on the disappointment instead of adjusting my viewpoint. Looking back and applying this lesson to my life, I know I've missed multiple blessings because it didn't turn out how I initially wanted or expected. I am praying for wisdom in this area. I want to slow down and not miss all the wonderful blessings God has for me just because it wasn't my initial vision or expectation. He is so good and plans only the best for us. Some blessings take time and are not obvious right away, but so worth the wait.

Psalm 27:14, New International Version

14 Wait for the Lord;

be strong and take heart

and wait for the Lord.

Oh, praise the God who sees and loves us so for his patience as we learn and blossom slowly into the ones, He created us to be.

2 Peter 3:9, Amplified Bible

9 The Lord does not delay [as though He were unable to act] and is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is [extraordinarily] patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.