Just as flowers bloom in their own time, our lives bloom when we nurture our inner selves and embrace opportunities. It is then that we discover things about ourselves and begin to develop and, frequently, blossom.
“Blooming refers to the flowering process of plants, indicating a phase of growth or development.” Similarly, from birth everyone grows and develops from an infant, an adolescent, into an adult. It’s the natural progression of life. “Blossoming specifically pertains to trees and shrubs producing blossoms, often symbolizing flourishing and maturation.” Trees and shrubs are firmly rooted and can withstand much as can those who have fully matured and been through the storms and the rains.
It’s important to realize that there are factors to be considered. Things like your mindset, the environment, and the people with whom you choose to spend quality time. Said another way, the timing of your life’s bloom is influenced by your personal circumstances and choices. As you reflect on the decisions you’ve made, allow yourself some time to fully embrace who you currently are and who you want to be. Lastly, ask yourself, if or what you’re willing to do to blossom.
Embracing your authentic self can be liberating, but it doesn’t come without its challenges. You need to have the stamina and determination to consistently defend yourself, your values, and your morals, especially when they are drastically different from others. But we must be like a flower that doesn’t think of competing with the flower next to it. It just focuses on blooming, knowing that it’s on its way to blossoming.
Every flower blooms at a different pace. Every flower blooms in its own time. And like flowers, it takes time to grow and reach your full potential, so be patient. During this time, it’s important to take care of yourself along your personal journey, while at the same time, accepting that every flower must grow through dirt. This is no different for us. There will undoubtedly be some disappointment, some heartache, and even some doubters who don’t believe you’ll ever blossom.
Like wildflowers, you must allow yourself to grow in all the places people thought you never would. Oprah Winfrey said, “You are built not to shrink down to less, but to blossom into more.” Be willing to stand up to those who may be trying to hold you down, not allowing your light to shine, or even expecting you to dim yours. The more your light shines, the more you blossom, and, consequently, bloom. Bloom where you are planted. Don’t dwell on the location. Have faith that the planter knows exactly what He is doing. Have confidence that your blossom is on its way!
The act of blooming is a reminder to embrace change, take risks, and step out of your comfort zones. Bloom into the person you were always meant to become and embrace it with everything you have.
I believe that everyone blooms, but not everyone blossoms. Unfortunately, not everyone chooses to thrive and become a mature, responsible adult, looking to be a better version of themselves. They are comfortable to blossom, with no desire of blooming nor remorse of not blooming.
But those who choose to bloom, let your uniqueness pave the way to a bloom beyond measure! Bloom with grace, courage and resilience, and inspire others with the desire to do the same, should they choose to! ■