Why? Every so often, when I view my Media Library here, I spot this one, and the same recurring thought emerges. I love this shot of Maniola Telmessia, seen in the HolyLand, Israel. That happy reflection leads me, time and time again to consider Why is this among my favorites?

The morning light that day was early morning light, coming at at an advantageous angle. There was little breeze. The wildflower plant, like so many in Israel, features spiked leaves, for this is not an easy land for plants to survive, and time may have proven that spiked armature helps. The lovely purple hue of the stems pleases my eye.

The coloration of this particular individual bedazzles me, for I love shades of brown, orange and yellow. That vast wash of orange can be the real reason that I like this one, and the unique coloration of the left lower wing surface insists that I stop and study.

Y’all read, hear and see much irresponsible news coverage of Israel, persuading that it is a land in constant danger, peril. Nope. This is the real Israel, gorgeous, mysterious and purposeful. That may be the most important reason I love this image, it markets Israel so perfectly, beautiful, unadorned and serene.

Jeff