Sis. Flora Morgan, temple matron, told of living in Japan when she was a young adult. Unable to speak many Japanese words she boldly took a floral arrangement class specializing in the ancient style of Shoka. The instructor was able to communicate with her, regardless of the language barrier, that the end result was to appear as though the floral ingredients were one. Three varieties are combined to appear as 'one' and fit snugly in a triangular holder within the vase.
One lesson Flora was given a large branch to include in the arrangement. There was no way it would fit in the holder. The teacher assured her it could be done. Flora took the branch home to cut it with a saw! A beautiful stem of flowers required all the blossoms to be shed save one. It seemed such a waste to discard beautiful flowers.
The end result appeared to be a single flower on a branch with another leaf as though they had grown together in perfection. Three ingredients in a triangular shape reaching for the sun as though they had grown together. Beautiful. Majestic. Simple.
Going to the temple each week is one of the great parts of my life. It is difficult to put into words the feelings of my heart regarding temple attendance. I will try:
Appreciation for the Beautiful
Being filled with Peace no matter the storm
Feeling Loved
Feeling Loving
Confidence in God
Hope in His Promises
Increased Faith
Strength of Soul
Renewal of Vision
Refinement of Character
Desire for Godly things
These are a few of the things that I experience in the temple.
When it comes to decorating the house my favorite motto has been
"A little too much is just about right."
That is not a good motto for life.
Simplicity IS beautiful.
I will endeavor to make my life "Shoka" so that I can be "one" with God.
