Before a warning could be issued, a hand reached out to touch the purple flower, resulting in a loud yelp. Oww, that hurt.
Thistles can be a prickly thing, and some are more savage than others. The mighty Scottish Thistle has quite a bite.
Since the spring we have followed the growth of one such weed in the flowerbed at work. Visitors and staff alike have looked at it – puzzled that such a majestic plant could have grown from a bed of river rock. Perhaps a bird dropped a seed, or the wind carried it to its resting spot.
The stories surrounding its germination brought about queries as to why it was left to grow – whether a planned spectacle or perhaps the gardener was just behind in his work. So many questions, but such a great distraction.
The thistle is the national flower of Scotland. One part of us hoped it would be in full flower come Highland games time, when Scots (and those who wish they were) descend on Fergus each August. Unfortunately, the purple blooms quickly lose their hue, and the mighty thistle begins preparing its seed to be broadcast for another year.
While watching its progress, we thought often of John Benham, a personality from the past who spent many years as the county weed inspector for south Wellington. Should his contemporary stop by and see such a spectacle, we would have been in for a thorough re-education on the perils of letting weeds live. Three weeks shy of the Games the weed was pulled.
While it had reached a respectable height of four feet and sprouted a dozen blooms, the root structure was incredibly shallow and may have maxed out at four inches in circumference. Some may find that observance a bit on the silly side or one of those inconsequential who-cares points, but nature if given a chance will astound and amaze anybody.
The flora of the summer of 2024 has been incredible. Conditions have been right from warm humid days to breezy evenings and plenty of rain. We hardly recall a summer where the greens were so vibrant and lush.
Prison time possible
Back in October 2022, Vincent Van Gogh’s painting Sunflowers, was targeted with a can of tomato soup.
It seemed to be the thing to do back then, in the name of speaking up about the environment.
The scene was the National Gallery of Art in London, England. BBC news reported the outcome of a recent trial where Phoebe Plummer and Anna Holland were found guilty of criminal damage. Sentencing will happen in September, but the judge has already warned them to be prepared “in practical and emotional terms to go to prison.” As one could easily suspect, their lawyer is considering an appeal.
This incident followed similar events where publicity was sought by attacking historically significant works of art in European galleries. We thought it pointless and hypocritical at the time and in the fullness of time maybe these activists will think differently as well. Maybe not.
We get the significance of these protests, but wasting food that would have been welcomed by the hungry just seems wrong. Compounding that poor choice by attempting to destroy works of classic art to make a larger modern point is not much different than the desecration of the landscape for economic ends that these activists protest. The irony is delicious.
It can be hoped that the free world is done with explaining away boorish behaviour. There’s nothing wrong with making a point, but when it comes at the expense of others and potentially denies others of their rights, it needs a response.
Heavy fines, jail? Activists need to learn there are repercussions when lines are crossed. Otherwise, anarchy ensues.
O Celine
The Paris 2024 Olympic games are now underway.
Canada has over 315 athletes participating in these Games across a wide range of categories. The breadth and scope of competitors is amazing.
The medal counts are trickling in and despite monkey business by soccer bosses, the women’s team managed to beat France. Cheering and spending time with family watching the Olympics brings Canadians closer. We can be proud as a nation.
An unexpected yet gratifying moment during the opening ceremony was when Celine Dion delighted spectators from across the globe. There on the Eiffel Tower she made her comeback after years of not singing due to stiff person syndrome. She was incredible as always, providing an example to Canadians that people can rise above challenges to achieve greatness.
O Canada, we are cheering for you.
