Bare feet seem to be a theme in my approach to endangered spaces. They represent entering with a soft impact and holy reverence. The soft ground Swamp Pink (Helonias bullata) rests in is a vulnerable space. Human trails weave among their stalks and I wonder when it will be too much. Swamp Pink is a strikingly beautiful endangered species. I can see why many people would be attracted to viewing it. Yet, in 25 years of living here, I have only visited the particular population in my area twice. I am afraid to visit too often. I do not want my impact to become part of their demise. When I have been, I see the heavy footprint of man and find myself asking a lot of questions. How do I honor this vulnerable species without destroying what makes it special? What is the balance between enjoying, loving, sharing, and protecting these species? After all, we can’t protect what we do not know and love. How do I honor my community member without approaching it as a consumer? I think these are important questions to ask. In the end, I know I am a sinner seeking something perfect and holy.
Helonias Holy Ground Bare feet reverent on sacred ground A desperate desire for deference in each step On my pilgrimage to Helonias Anointed incense ascends In fervent floral prayers that there will be more That there will be a future. Sinner’s feet sink in the mud And I remember I cannot ever be Holy enough We seem to have a knack for being self-centered Making this about us Coming here to this Holy ground Pursuing happiness instead of holiness While the fly buzzing around my head has found a way to worship without destroying The ground around me shows the scars in the paths we have trampled in pursuit of pleasure Your body sacrificed again and again for our selfish gain But maybe not selfish Maybe we need to feel this holiness To understand what it means and how to be That holiness is not a commodity You are a reminder of sacred things If you are not here We lose the possibility of holiness within ourselves This hallowed temple reveals how insignificant And how significant our presence is all at once I send up my fervent faltering prayers on the sweet, sun-warmed incense That there will more That there will be a future And that we will learn this way of holiness Even if it takes a lifetime.
What a beautiful flower! I share your thoughts too, about not wanting to become part of the negative impact that might lead to the species decline.
What incredible, beautiful flowers and plants the Swamp Pink are. Thank you for showing them to us.