Cross and Dogwood

There is a legend that states, "At the time of the crucifixion, the dogwood had been the size of the oak and other forest trees. It was so firm and strong that it was chosen for the timber of the cross.  To be used for such a cruel purpose was distressing for the tree, and Jesus, to be nailed to it, sensed it.  In his pity for all sorrow and suffering, Jesus said to the tree, 'Because of your gentle pity for my suffering, never again shall the dogwood tree grow large enough to be used for a cross.  From now on, it shall be bent and twisted and slender, and its blossoms shall be in the form of a cross - two long and two short petals.  In the center of the outer edge of each petal there will be nail prints, brown with rust and stained with red, and in the center of the flower there will be a crown of thorns; all who see it will remember.'"