Saturday 7 April 2012

Symbols .........


New life kindles feelings of expectation, hope and often forgiveness. A time to "wipe the slate clean" and start anew. Rabbits, hares and eggs, are fertility symbols from antiquity, which herald the coming of new life - for obvious reasons.
“Symbols influence the nature and development of social organization and the growth of culture.”  This is certainly evident at this time of year.
For over 2500 years painted eggs have been given to celebrate the arrival of Spring......and in my case, an expanding waistline during this Period of Chocolate Temptation. For many, religious or not,  eggs have become a symbol of Easter. 
Courtesy Zimbo
In France, the gift of chocolate bells signifies the return of their ringing in churches on Easter Sunday, after having been silenced on the day before Easter Friday in acknowledgement of Christ's death. Children believe that the bells temporarily exit France to visit the Pope. 
The significance of The Cross and The Star of David are universally understood.
Courtesy, Cats and Quilts
The bible has about 15 references to lilies - the Lily of the Valley is seen by many as a symbol Christ.
The sending of “coded messages” through flowers and specific floral arrangements (Tussie-Mussies) were often used in the Victorian era.


In contemporary times, there is a whole industry devoted to logos, because of the power these symbols have assumed.


So keeping with this theme her are some Easter wishes for you ........................

Water Lily flower is symbolic of rebirth, but in addition to its religious meaning, the lotus is also a symbol of all that is true, good and beautiful, representing good fortune, peace and enlightenment. A lotus represents life in general. 



Lavender: Devotion

Camellia: admiration, perfection, good luck gift to a man. 

Dark pink rose: appreciation........ gratitude........ thank you.

Poppy (red): pleasure....... consolation

Sunflowers: warmth......happiness......adoration......longevity.

A whole tree of olive branches to wish you peace.


May the true spirit of Easter touch us all.

12 comments:

Ann said...

Have a wonderful weekend, Elizabeth!

Any word from France lately?

Elizabeth at Eiffel Tells said...

Unfortunately not Annie. I would love to name and shame the company who is meant to be project managing our renovations en France, but I'm not au fait
with French law, so I remain silent! Still dreaming of having you stay with us in France on day.
Bisous

Danielle's Sweets said...

Hello! I just found your blog tonight and I love it. Your pictures are amazing as are your words. I look forward to seeing more of your posts!

Happy Easter!

Danielle xo

French Girl in Seattle said...

Thank you for stopping by chez French Girl this week, Elizabeth! I loved this post. Informative, and a bit different from the traditional "Easter posts" on the blogosphere. Loved that last photo of the olive tree. Bon courage avec les mechants artisans!!! Veronique (French Girl in Seattle)

Decor To Adore said...

Easter perfection!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Jo Farmer said...

Beautiful blog Elizabeth. Hope you're having a wonderful Easter. We're hoping to head off to France sometime in May. We'll be in and around the Limousin. Where is your property? I also have several friends in France so if you're unsure of the legalities, let me know and I could pose a few questions.
Hang in there. Bestest

Jo x

Genie -- Paris and Beyond said...

I love all the symbols you have shared, and have made for you a virtual bouquet (tussie-mussie) of red poppies, water lily flowers, some huge sunflowers, and a lily of the valley.

Bises,
Genie

Kerri said...

Easter Blessings to you my friend!

Enjoy :)

LaPouyette said...

Beautiful flowering pictures and post, Elizabeth! Full of hope.

All my best wishes for a lovely and Happy Easter for you and your family.

Warmest greetings,
karin

French Basketeer.com said...

I love all of the symbols of good luck, we can use whatever comes our way!~ email to you now~ cheers~ A

LaPouyette said...

Happy Easter, Elizabeth!

left a comment to this lovely post before - but it seems that it has disappear....????

Tres amicalement,
karin

Fifi Flowers said...

J'adore SPRING!!!