Thanksgiving Magnolias - a special blessing

Thanksgiving Magnolias

12 years ago in the Spring of 2002, my daughter lost a baby during the first trimester. On Mothers Day a very small Magnolia tree was planted in the year in honor of a little one they dubbed Joseph. The Magnolia resembled more of a Charlie Brown tree than a strong Magnolia. Less than four feet tall with a trunk you could wrap your fingers around. Propped up by four stakes to help strengthen a tiny little tree during the Spring and Summer scant leaves came to life on the few branches of the tree. A strong wind could have uprooted the time Magnolia, yet it stood as if defiant of the elements that year. The trunk carefully wrapped like a wound being healed. All three plus feet stood proud.

When Fall came the little Magnolia let go of the few leaves which had rested on the branches, now barren and small the little tree was well braced for the cold winter ahead. Each day I would look out the kitchen window and find the assurance the mighty little Magnolia still stood. With branches so frail looking, they looked as if they could snap with a touch - the tree still stood strong.

At Thanksgiving time 12 years ago, a fresh blanket of snow covered the ground. Six inches of snow wrapped around it's wrapping and clinging to the tiny trunk, the Magnolia still stayed strong - the difference was this morning as life had stilled a bit for a holiday, the tiny Magnolia had a special growth. On this tiny tree I could see something on the branches. Braced for the cold weather I went out to the tree and six huge Magnolia flowers were in full bloom on the tiny branches. Beautiful like a Spring day in the heart of winter the Magnolia carried the flowers with such pride.

The little one who was dubbed Joseph would have been born at Thanksgiving time, though six months earlier the babe had flown away. It was as if the little one who left Mom and Dad too soon sent back a sign, a flower for each month which was not to be in this world on a cold winter day with six beautiful flowers he was saying I am alive and well. When the Spring came the little Magnolia no longer shared any new growth, regardless of what was tried - the spirit of the tiny tree had left as well. Since then when this time of year comes, I remember the babe, tiny Magnolia and wonderful gift left on the branches at a time which should have been impossible. Knowing when you least expect a blessing to come that is when it will appear. In a form which can't be discounted, does not need to be understood with only grace to lead the way! Happy Birthday Joseph - you left your imprint on the heart forever. 

Though also another baby was conceived In the Spring and Jayden Sierra came into this world, seems very fitting part of her name is connected in nature as well with a special angel to watch over her in Joseph.