Thoughts on the 'Key Flower'

What a splendid inspiring story is this, illustrated by Bliss Knapp entitled “The Key-Flower” by Bayard Taylor (We Knew MBE expanded volume pp228 -230). This must have been an incredible moment for this shepherd. His thoughts were so imbued with happiness and joy over the material riches that “the best” that pointed the way was completely lost. Material abundance at times may shut our eyes and preoccupy our entire life in such a manner that we fail to realize we are just stewards. We feel it is we who have done something, whereas in actual fact man cannot do anything of his own.

I recall a situation where I had bought an item and indeed felt it was “the best.” After getting home I felt the love I owed for my sister was more. She was worth it. So I presented her with the item and indeed told her this is my best valuable. She accepted with open hands and in fact she looked very happy. I was happy too for the radiance her face expressed.

Within few days she informed me she had given that item to dear friend. I could not give her the ears! I just felt bad, for it was something I felt I needed to possess. I kept quiet and regretted giving it to her. She knew I was unhappy and she avoided any subject relating to it.

After few days, I told her am indeed sorry. The love I had seen in her was still the same love reflected in that friend. I had forgotten that “the best” was not the item but it was “Love.” She was happy and hugged me with these words from our Leader, “whatever blesses one blesses all.” We are all blessed of the Father. Let’s not be carried away by the material senses. Let us be keen and attentive to the small voice, ‘’Don’t forget the Best”.