Photo and Commentary ©2023 by Cheryl Boardman
Monday, August 14, 2023
I found this large flower (labeled as a Hardy Hibiscus) in a little park which is part of the Wenatchee Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center. The Research and Extension Center is part of Washington State University, and the sign says it was established in 1937.
Most hibiscus are considered tropical or subtropical plants and are not usually found blooming in areas like Central Washington where you can have extreme heat (some days over 100°F and very dry) as well as some days below freezing with piles of snow. My sister, who lives in a similar climate, has a tropical hibiscus plant and has to bring it indoors in the winter or it will die. This hardy variety, Hibiscus moscheutos (Robert Fleming) is planted in the ground and somehow survives the harsh conditions.
According to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, “hardy” (in this case) means capable of withstanding adverse conditions. I think that part of being human means that we will face adverse conditions at some point in our lives. Here are some Bible verses on how we can withstand them.
Oh, the joys of those who do not
follow the advice of the wicked,
or stand around with sinners,
or join in with mockers.
But they delight in the law of the LORD,
meditating on it day and night.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither,
and they prosper in all they do.
Psalm 1:1-3 (NLT)