Dandelions…Weed or Treasure?
What do you see when you see dandelions? As a child I saw beautiful yellow flowers to make a bouquet for mother. I also love blowing the white seeds into the wind (much to the dismay of my father). As teen they became a noxious weed that I had to dig up out of the yard. As an adult they were an expensive nuisance in my yard that needed removal. As a senior adult I am learning that God really knew what He was doing when He created the dandelion. The dandelion has wealth of health benefits, and every part of the dandelion can be used from root to flower. The dandelion can improve your digestive health (probiotic), antioxidants in the plant improve liver health, reduce risk of heart disease, help prevent stroke and lowers cholesterol. Dandelion leaves are a natural diuretic, and that benefits your heart. Dandelion roots help protect your skin form UV sun damage, extracts are used to treat skin cancer without skin damage. Dandelions contain antioxidants and Anti-inflammatory properties that benefit diabetics. They are packed with vitamins and minerals to protect your body, bones, skin and eyes. There are even more benefits to dandelion!
Why all this info about dandelions? Just like the dandelion, some people might view the homeless as a “noxious weed” of our society. Campaigns to “get them off the streets” because they are a reminder not everyone has what God
has blessed us with (like pulling up weeds in our yard). We don’t look past their situations to see the greatness of God (all the health benefits of the dandelion).
At Open Door Mission is able to provide them with basics (food, water and a healthy environment). We talk with them…what are their goals, their hopes and needs. Thanks to donors, volunteers and staff we can help each person reveal their God given strengths, talents and skills, so they can bloom. Get to know the homeless. They may not be a dandelion, but a rose of God’s glorious creation. Come take a tour and/or volunteer at the Mission, see for yourself how God is working in others’ lives…you will be blessed.