Geraniums and Irises

God has created numerous things in nature to solve some of our daily problems.  As an example, while in France three weeks ago, we saw numerous thatched rooves with a row of irises blooming on the crest.  Nice, creative, decorative touch, we thought -- then learned the French discovered long ago the roots of the iris will inter-lock and hold the thatch firmly from the top. (How they learned that would make another interesting investigation.)  Add to the benefits of roots holding your roof together, the French also learned rats hate the smell of iris. 

We saw window boxes of geraniums everywhere.  Ah, so picturesque!  All those beautiful splashes of vibrant color.  I’ve never thought more about when or why window boxes came into being.   It turns out there is a practical reason for having them.  For centuries, people have opened their windows to allow a fresh breeze into the house (unless you happened to live over-looking a street that served as an open sewer).  Most towns were built along rivers which served as trade routes.  Mosquitoes flourished.  The French learned geraniums repel mosquitoes.  With geraniums in a window box, people could have the benefit of fresh air without the unwelcomed visitors.

God knew what troubles we would face after the Fall.  So, from creation, He built in cures and protective resources. The world is His garden, filled with provisions for us.  It’s up to us to discover them and use them wisely – and with thankful hearts.