Little Flower,

At first a tiny bud,

All closed in

And thinking of self

 

But unfolding over time

With petals unfurled

By the heat of sufferings

And the gentle rains

Of faith, hope, and love

 

So you could blossom beautifully

For God

In the good, rich soil

He had chosen for you

 

And reflect the sunshine

Of Grace

And Peace

And Joy,

 

So that now

You are radiant,

Beaming,

Smiling,

 

Daily gathering drops of Heavenly dew,

And raining them over all the earth

As roses.

 

 

(C) 2025 Kitchen Table Catholic. Image (c) Archives du Carmel de Lisieux. Many thanks to the Carmel of Lisieux, in whose archives at https://archives.carmeldelisieux.fr/en/ we found this painting by Celine entitled Therese on the Knees of the Father. You can also find St. Therese’s own original artwork, as well as family photographs, sketchbooks, and other beautiful works of members of the Martín family there. Used with permission.