The bright red blooms poke their heads out from the shrub as a dog pops it's head out of the car window. Against the concrete background the flowers seem out of place, full of life, vibrant in color and very alert. The pavement below is hard and speckled, and colorless.  Even the shrub these wide open roses are sitting on contrasts with the tender petals, with its sharp thorns hidden behind firm auburn and green leaves. How does tenderness co exist in such a hardened world? Gentleness, tender beauty, kindness and enthusiasm seem out of place at times, against the calloused world. Yet, life itself resides within them.

What is the gentle side of you wanting to say to you today? What would you do differently if you didn't need to be so strong?