Not my most perfect photo ever, but one that carries meaning for me.
These marigolds survived a tree falling on them: https://pbase.com/britestar/the_storm_of_2026

When a killing freeze was then threatened, I quickly picked as many surviving marigolds on my crushed deck as I could. Although I knew that they normally are not long lasting bouquet flowers, I felt a need to make their story last a little bit longer. Earlier nights and darkness come with approaching Winter. If I were to at least try for a best possible image of these flowers (considering the circumstances handed me), indoor dedicated photography lighting became a necessity. Nevertheless, I skipped that. Instead, I just used whatever low ambient indoor lighting was illuminating the kitchen table.

Such is life.
Imperfect.
Yet still continuing memorable in its random moments.

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Marigolds are flowers that carry many meanings.

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"Warmth, happiness, optimism, good luck: Their bright yellow–orange colors evoke solar energy and vitality.
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Devotion and auspiciousness: In Hinduism and Buddhism, marigolds are sacred offerings symbolizing purity, prosperity, and divine welcome.
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Remembrance and honoring the dead: In Mexico and Aztec tradition, marigolds (cempasúchil) guide spirits during Día de los Muertos.
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Protection and resilience: Their strong fragrance and hardiness give them symbolic ties to spiritual protection and cleansing."
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And also the colors of Autumn..
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To read more: https://www.petalrepublic.com/marigold-flower-meaning/