The language of flowers reached its greatest popularity during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837– 1901), when social conventions prevented polite people from saying what they really meant. So they used flowers, among other things, to speak for them. Every flower has a meaning. Learn the language of flowers, herbs, and spices.

Here are some examples:
* Dandelion means “oracle.”
* Ivy means “fidelity.”
* Jasmine means “grace and elegance.”
* Iris means “message.”
* Nasturtium means “patriotism.”
* Parsley means “useful knowledge.”
* Cinnamon means “my fortune is yours.”

Gather for a brief ritual in which you and your circle mates give each other flowers whose meanings express your feelings for one another. Announce the meaning of each flower, then invoke Flora (the Roman goddess of flowers) and exchange your flowers:

These flowers, sweet tokens
of friendship we share,
Our circle, the ritual
space in our care—
We’re sisters and brothers,
all circling today,
We’re friends here working
or in sacred play.
So mote it be!