David,

That prayer, to the rose/for the rose, is wonderful, and I'm sure it will move mountains.  I didn't mean to imply that prayer to a Judeo-Christian version/image of God is the only way.  When I think of God myself, it isn't a guy with a long white beard reading a book, and pointing a finger in judgement, even though I think Michelangelo's portrait of "the" deity on the Sistine Chapel, is certainly closer to an image of God for the masses. 

What you did is exactly what I hoped folks who responded to my post would do. ie  Find their own way, their own path.  I think we frail humans are born with a sense of an outer "power".   It leads us, sometimes fools us, but we know it's there when we need it.   If we can talk to it, walk with it...all the better.   I don't have a better conception of this than anyone else.  I just believe that this life DOES have meaning, and purpose.  I can't explain the heartache and misery in the world, although I think a lot of it stems from man's folly and greed, and basic nastiness.  I believe you are probably closer to the "source" or power of this universe (call it God) when you sought the beauty of that rose, and meditated upon it's extraordinary energy, an energy so pure, it could probably heal all who behold it.   I thank you greatly; so does Dan.

And remember...A rose is a rose is a rose is a rose ....(sorry, I just couldn't resist)

Gene