The Plum Blossom

A tid bit — a thought to bring us hope.

One of my favorite things in life is discovering meaning in seemingly trivial things. This is a shout out to my green thumbs and nature lovers. From cultures around the world, we can find so many plants of all varieties that hold significant meaning whether that be medicinal use, cooking traditions, aesthetics, or notions of the heart and mind. Its natures love letter to us, she has so many ways of connecting us to the earth. And I love that shit.

As one of few flowers that bloom in winter, Plum Blossoms signify endurance, perseverance, strength, commitment and beauty, and in essence, the process of growth. Despite severe weather conditions, each colorful petal grows through the winter storms. Best part; the harsher the conditions, the more buds come into bloom. What a lovely metaphor for life.

Plum blossoms flower everywhere and anywhere. Where there is earth, they grow, fearless of ice and snow. This is why the plum blossom was officially designated as the National Flower of the Republic of China in 1964. It is a symbol for resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. It is also a symbol for longevity, as ancient trees continue to grow for generations on end. In Hubei, there is a 1,600 year-old plum tree from the Jin Dynasty which still flourishes today, a staggering and awe inspiring life for this magical tree.

There is an old Chinese proverb I read that states:

“When literacy is loved, the plum blossoms will open. When learning is prohibited, the plum blossoms will close”.

When we are not learning, we are not open. We are not growing. To continue to discover your path requires you to do so with endurance, perseverance, and commitment. From that inner work your beauty blossoms, that special gift that only you possess.

“Cherry blossoms are cherry blossoms and plum blossoms are plum blossoms. Accordingly, you must bloom in the way that only you can. Without a doubt, you possess your own jewel, your own innate talent inside of you.” (Nichiren)

There is nothing more beautiful and powerful than when we are our truest self, audaciously proud of what makes us different, relentless in our pursuit of personal greatness, and blooming even in the harshest conditions. Stay true to you, and like a plum blossom, even in darkness and adversity, choose to grow.