I’m thinking of a color that I have recently come to appreciate, not just for its beauty, but for the feelings it provokes in its various shades and hues.

In its deepest shades it is anger, deep, seething anger. Even the sky uses it to warn of violent storms.

But it is calming to the spirit in the deepening shadows of the twilight sky, or hinting at hidden beauty in the distant gloom of the dense woods.

Historically, it has been the color of the ermine trimmed royal robes. It is the symbol of being in charge. It denotes power.

In softer hues, it heralds Spring and new beginnings. It is found in open faces of crocuses, and adds it loveliness to the sweet fragrance of the lilac. The wisteria climbs to the very top of the pine tree and burst in an exuberance of cascading blossoms. It is generous in its profusion of beauty and perfumes the air with its delicate sweetness. Irises, standing at attention and proudly lifting the soft delicate shade, defy the challenges of even the wind and hail.

It is a color that will not be overlooked. In all shades, it asserts its right to be. It says, "Look at me!" I have come to love it, as its many facets reflect the complexity of my own personality... Color me purple.