For the past couple of weeks, I've included a picture of a Dogwood blossom and a brief copy of the legend of the Dogwood in each of my cards to my OWH contacts. I've gotten some nice responses from them. One, a fellow Tarheel, has hers pinned to her bulletin board in Afghanistan. Another wrote of a Dogwood planted where his grandparents are buried. I'm glad I thought to send this little treasure to others.
Legend of the dogwood, North Carolina’s state flower
At the time of the crucifixion, the dogwood had reached the size of the mighty oak tree. So strong and firm was the wood that it was chosen as the timber for Jesus's cross.
To be used for such a cruel purpose greatly distressed the dogwood. While nailed upon it, Jesus sensed this, and in his compassion said, "Because of your pity for my suffering, never again shall the dogwood tree grow large enough to be used for a cross. Henceforth, it shall be slender, bent, and twisted, and its blossoms shall be in the form of a cross–two long and two short petals. In the center of the outer edge of each petal will be the print of nails. In the center of the flower, stained with blood, will be a crown of thorns so that all who see it will remember."
The petals have all fallen to the ground now. They were glorious this year even though they bloomed weeks before Easter. I'll look forward to seeing them next year.
Aw, thanks so much for sharing this! I had no idea of this story but I appreciate it very much! Happy Easter!
ReplyDeleteI also have fond memories of a dogwood tree. One grew in front of the house in Pennsylvania where I grew up. I always thought it was a beautiful tree. I never knew the legend though so thanks for sharing it!
ReplyDeleteI love Dogwood trees. Thanks for sharing this information, along with the beautiful picture, with your OWH contacts!
ReplyDeleteI grew up hearing this legend. We always included the crown of thorns in the middle. Thanks for bringing back some sweet memories of Easters long, long ago.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful post Dixie. We are finally starting to see blossoming here now and it truly makes it a special time of year. Happy Easter!
ReplyDeleteOh, how I miss the beautiful dogwoods and azaleas of North Carolina. We lived there in the 70s and 80s and always thought we would move back someday.
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