Three Cosmos © 2011 Bo Mackison
One looks, looks long, and the world comes in. ~ Joseph Campbell
Cosmos were originally grown in Mexico and South America.
It was common for priests to grow them in their mission gardens because it was a reliable and easily tended flower. Cosmos have even petals around a crowned center, and so the priests called the flowers “Cosmos”, Greek for harmony or an ordered universe.
I love the idea that cosmos is named for its orderliness, and that such as wondrous word — cosmos — means something as simple as orderly.
I also love that a field of cosmos is anything but orderly. The many-colored flowers – hues of white, light and dark pinks, and reds – grow on very long stems. In a breeze, cosmos tumble and tangle together. I think a meadow of cosmos, swaying in a light wind, is one of the most inspiring scenes imaginable.
Plus it is almost impossible not to smile when watching the cosmos’ wave at me!
I think a waving field of cosmos is one of the prettiest late summer happenings!
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They sure are pretty! I can only imagine how a meadow of them might look!
Oh thanks for explaining the origin of the name Bo – I googled it (in vain) after your post yesterday because I was wondering if that was the root – the flower photo you posted certainly talked to me of an ordered universe!
a wave brings a smile to me too Bo, love the photo and words
You are right about Cosmos not being orderly. Mine didn’t do well this year, so it is a pleasure to see yours.