Flame of the forest for me is...

right now, my city is ablaze with flame of the forest. i always wait for this time of the year to arrive because i absolutely love these flowers. plus i love the rain that these flowers bring along. i love the cold wind that makes the coconut leaves whoosh and i love the sweet smell that the earth sends up as soon as the rain drops touch it.

my love for flame of the forest and i go a long way back. there was a huge flame of the forest tree right in front of the house where i grew up. not only that, i have been one of those geeks who grew up calling their school a second home. just like my first home, my second home, meaning my school had two flame of the forest trees planted on one side of the soccer field.

every time the trees around the city fill with the fiery flowers, oodles of fond memories return to me. memories of my childhood, memories of my high school and memories of ringing laughter. its a blessing to have these trees around, which when flowerless emit hope (that flowers are to bloom soon bringing beautiful weather) and when in full bloom spread happiness that pastes an undying smile on my face.

when tanzil and i will have a home of our own, i shall plant a flame of the forest tree right in front of it so that our children can enjoy the hope and happiness that this tree holds.