John and his family were so excited about moving to their new home that they spent some time in the balcony contemplating on its location and surroundings. John spoke with his son Simon and asked him, “What are we going to do with this tall grass that was left unattended for several years?”

“I’ll do my best to beautify the garden and plant some flowers.”

“Look, Simon, there is a beautiful white flower in the midst of the grass.”

 “Where?”

 “On the right side about a meter from our neighbor's fence,” replied John.

 “One can hardly see it with all this grass. It's so beautiful. I'm going to get it since it’s the only one!” exclaimed Simon.

 Simon headed to the right side of the garden. However, he could not see the flower because of the tall grass. Eventually, he was able to find it after his father directed him from the balcony. He was amazed to find such a flower. He realized that it had grown in his neighbor's garden.

 “How wonderful to find such a beautiful flower in the middle of the tall grass!” Said Simon to his parents after giving them the flower.

 “Why are you so amazed Simon? There are so many nice flowers in the wilderness of this world. These are the believers’ souls whose roots extend to the heavenly garden that God looks after. The real Christian extends his roots into heaven, while his feet are planted in this world where he plants a beautiful flower radiating God's presence.

“For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing” (2 Cor. 2.15).”

→ English translation of the story here at St-Takla.org: زهرة جميلة بين العشب.

I am certain that even if the whole world appeared as grass,

There would definitely be beautiful flowers in it.

You have true witnesses in every generation, O my Lord.

Grant me O God to be a flower amidst the grass.

To hear Your sweet voice saying:

“Like a flower among thorns,

Likewise is my beloved among the virgins.

All beautiful, without blemish.”

Forgiveness, Not Authority

Short Stories (Stories for the Youth) Books by Father Tadros Yacoub Malaty

The Path in the Snow