Ragged-Robin

Lychnis flos-cuculi or ragged-robin likes to grow in damp places. In Britain, it has declined in numbers because of modern farming techniques and draining of wetlands. A plant once common is common no more. I found this one growing in a bog near Falkirk. On its stalk are tiny, downward-pointing hairs that prevent small insects from climbing up and damaging the flower. From drainage schemes and other habitat changes, however, its little hairs offer no defence. Perhaps its increased rarity renders its lively pink flowers all the more beautiful. When, in this godless age, I meet a fellow believer, I am all the happier. When I discover he or she is sound of doctrine, not given to churchy gimmicks or excesses, I am particulary delighted, for such folk are rare. 

Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:11