the core or middle of anything
center
“American aloe plant,” 1797, from L. Agave, from Gk. Agaue,proper name in mythology (mother of Pentheus), from agauos“noble,” perhaps from agasthai “wonder at,” from gaiein “to rejoice, exult,” with intensive prefix a-. The name seems to have been taken generically by botanists, the plant perhaps so called for its “stately” flower stem.
“noble, wonder, to rejoice” this agave sits out front of my gallery/warehouse. i pass it daily and only yesterday realized its “center” revealed beautiful markings from its growth. it does evoke a noble feel in color sage, silky smooth touch, elegance and strength, a wonder to look at which brings one to rejoice in their good fortune for having witnessed it. something so ordinary living here in the desert one see’s this plant everywhere and everyday, it ought to be our mantra for living here! “take the time to see the agave and find your center”.
October 18th, 2009 at 1:54 pm
“Noble, wonder, to rejoice” How blessed you are to have this reminder every day. Truly wonderful thoughts!
The greek reminds me also of agua – water. It would make sense they’d have a similar root since the aloe exudes so much liquid. Off to look up water!
October 18th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Hi. Found you, ironically, through Twitter, and I’m happy I did. Your art is beautiful, and your words just right — not too little or too much.
I love this photograph of the aloe plant. You’ve inspired me to take a closer look at mine.
October 23rd, 2009 at 12:30 am
Finding our center has been neglected in our present norms. Instead, we busy ourselves with reacting with the world.