The Lotus

The Lotus is often used as a metaphor in the yogic tradition to symbolize our spiritual evolution. The roots begin in the mud and represent our lower nature, unconsciousness - the stem rises up through the muddy water being cleansed and reaching for the light (wisdom and truth) - this also represents our search and connection to intuitive awareness. Finally the flower buds and blossoms in the sun, realizing our attainment of consciousness and connection to the beauty of life when we can see past the illusion of the world. We are then able to merge with the Divine.

As I have heard a very wise person say, "it takes a lot of fertilizer to create a beautiful garden."