We all know that the lotus flower is a symbol of Buddhism, but is that all there is to it?

The lotus flower is not your average flower — it is a power flower! It is bigger than life, bigger than you and me. But you too can grasp the essence of the lotus.

The lotus flower is revered in Japan for its ability to rise from the dirty, murky waters to bloom into a beautiful pure flower. This process symbolizes attaining enlightenment. The idea is that we can rise above human suffering in the same way as the lotus by moving from the lowest to the highest state of consciousness. If I ever do manage it, I only hope I'll look as good.