There's an ode to a cactus flower; talks about how thorny life is, and yet exquisitely beautiful and gentle. There's a song that reminds us how happy we humans can be, especially in spring, in warm sunshine filled days with flowers blooming and songbirds singing.
This particular Prickly Pear has been living in its spot for over four years. It loves a well drained, sunny spot facing south. This is a perfect rock garden plant for Northern Nevada. And once established, it pretty much enjoys the weather here.