On the reverse side of this reproduction of Brother Nicholas' oil painting are the following words: "A lesson learned in gardening comes from watching the sunflowers grow."

The Lesson learned as stated on this card is twofold:
1. The sunflower gives us an example of a positive attitude with their smiling faces.
2. Sunflowers teach us humility, as their faces literally bow in worship as they follow the sun of growth and strength.

Carlos as you have helped Father John with many hours in the garden this summer, and as you realize we are now enjoying the beauty of the flowers and fruits of Father John's and your labors, I want you to be mindful of this during your days as a novice.

I want you to keep this picture on your desk and during the days of the novitiate reflect on this artwork, for if you do, it will help you to learn the twofold lesson of the sunflower and your days will be happy days.

Keep a positive attitude about you on days of joy and on days of sorrow; on days of success and days of failure. For you will learn that the trials of monastic life can appear to you to be hard and even harsh as they lead you on your way to seeking God. Your positive attitude will see you through the hard and harsh days.

Let the sunflower teach you humility and bow in worship to our lord, Jesus, the Son of justice. As our Father Benedict writes: "Day by day cherish at all times a sense of awe with which all humans should turn to God.

To bow in worship will have you reflect that those who despise God and reject his love prepare for themselves that spiritual death, which is meant by hell.

To bow in worship will have you reflect on that life in eternity which is prepared for those who love and fear God.

As you journey through this year of your novitiate, remember you do not make this journey alone. We your brothers are there to help you on your journey. Carlos knowing that we are here to help you learn the lesson from the sunflower will keep you smiling and humble.