Iris - Fleur-de-lis

Endowed with stunning beauty and elegance,

Regally adorned in delicate petals,

Over 200 species of irises around our world,

Decked in garments of many colors,

So fittingly derive their name

From the Greek word for rainbow.

Also known as the Fleur-de-lis

From the French words for flower and lily,

Representing Faith, Hope, and Wisdom,

Emblem of the City of New Orleans,

Now symbolizing New Orleans' recovery

Following Hurricane Katrina.

-- by Anne Steinman