'The lotus is one of the most beautiful and best known of wetland plants, growing in still waters all over the world. The species seen in southeast Asia is Nelumbo nucifera. The lotus is a symbol for the Buddha and also represents purity. It blooms briefly and represents the power of the soul to rise from the muddy waters of the lower realms of consciousness into the sunlight of a better life. Seeds have been found that would still germinate after 1,300 years.'But for me, it's just plain beautiful.
