Butterflies, rosemary, and the Taj Mahal. What do these things have in common? They speak of love that never dies. The herb rosemary, in the border, is for remembrance. The ancients believed it was a symbol of fidelity. Woven into bridal wreaths at weddings, it was also used in religious ceremonies, and was thought to have powerful healing qualities. The butterfly’s time on Earth is short. Sometimes, no longer than a day. Yet in its brief span it lives a butterfly’s lifetime, bringing flashes of beauty to our world that are no less intense or valuable for being brief. Butterflies also symbolize rebirth and regeneration. From humble caterpillar to the emergence of a glorious winged creature from its cocoon – it’s one of Nature’s everyday miracles. The Taj Mahal is the 7th Wonder of the World. This exquisite Indian monument to a king’s love was built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan to celebrate his love for Mumtaz Mahal, his wife of 19 years. Said to be more beautiful than the moon, as well as kind and generous, she died in 1630 giving birth to her 14th child. Legend has it that after her death, Shahjahan remained in seclusion for a week. When he emerged to begin building the Taj Mahal, and to continue the work of state, his hair was white, his back bent, and his handsome face ravaged with sorrow. From grief and despair he created one of Earth’s greatest tributes to love. Love is never lost, Goddess. Tell the ones you love, whether their time is butterfly-short, or long as the history of the Taj Mahal, that thoughts of them fill your heart. And bring you joy. Story on back. |