What’s one thing that can bring Texans together, regardless of the circumstance? I know the answer — Texas’ state flower, our native bluebonnet! No matter what sports team we root for, what music we listen to, what politician we vote for, or what faith we adhere to, most — if not all — would agree that one spectacular, uniquely Texan experience is to be surrounded by a fragrant field of bluebonnets. Breathtakingly beautiful, gloriously intoxicating — even the most picture-perfect postcard can’t do them justice.
Persistent little treasures they are, those bluebonnets, dormant during unrelentless triple-digit heat, patiently lying in wait all winter to emerge come spring. Now we know they can even survive an icepocolypse! So strong and resilient in every way. (Just like a lot of Texans I know.)
And aren’t we the lucky ones, those of us who call the Brazos Valley home, living deep in the heart of bluebonnet-land! We don’t have to go far to find them. They line the roadsides, pop up on vacant land, blanket pastures, and grow in lovingly curated garden beds. With pride we protect and defend our beloved bluebonnets and all of their wild and weedy friends — the Indian paintbrush and Indian blanket, firewheel and Drummond phlox, pink evening primrose and prairie verbena — and so many more that magnificently grace our state for a short time. No matter what hardships we endure throughout the year, we can always count on Texas wildflowers to bring good cheer in abundance as they usher in spring.
Most I think would agree that the past year has been a challenge, and I don’t need to spell out why since each of us has our own stories to tell. If we’ve made it through, though, we probably gained some perspective. If I learned anything, it would be to focus on the positives and be grateful. To listen with an open heart. To be more present and attentive, and to make memories that will be worth treasuring someday. How many times did spring come and go, when I whizzed past a blooming bluebonnet patch with the best intention to return, disappointed that I didn’t once they were gone? Too many.
Yes, now is the time for no more regrets. We are not promised tomorrows. This year I will make time to stop and smell the bluebonnets.
— Ellen Ritscher Sackett
