My Artistic License to Steal Colors from Nature

Hey guys, so I've been an artist since forever. You know how it goes, there’s always something inspiring around you that just speaks through your soul and onto the canvas or paper. Well, last week I decided to set up my easel at our local park on a sunny afternoon. The way the light hit those trees and reflected off the pond was stunning. It was like nature itself had painted this masterpiece for me to capture. So, I get really excited when I find just the right colors in my palette that match what I’m seeing. You know how it is, the light blues, soft greens, vibrant yellows. But then there’s one spot where a particular shade of red catches my eye on a flower. It’s like nothing I’ve got, and as much as I mix, I can’t quite replicate it. I get so absorbed in wanting that color to come out just right that something inside me whispers, ‘What if you could take a little piece from the world itself?’ And before I know it, my hand reaches out not for more paint but for a small, delicate flower. The one with that perfect shade of red. Now, here’s where things get sticky and I need your advice. It felt right at the moment; like part of me was giving back to nature by putting its colors onto canvas where others can enjoy them too. But now, as I look around the empty space where my tiny flower used to be, a bit of guilt creeps in. I know it’s not something you learn about in art school, taking from nature isn’t exactly encouraged. So here’s my question: Is this just a phase? Am I justified because I’m capturing beauty rather than destroying it? Or am I just being selfish and irresponsible? And if so, how can I continue to honor that beauty without breaking the rules? Thanks for any thoughts you might have! This one really has me pondering my artistic ethics.