The Rose, with all of its beauty, fragrance and perfection, has long been a symbol of Romantic Love. From the Greeks to the Romans, from Shakespeare to modern poets, one could write volumes about the history of this symbolism. However, the other day, as I passed by an old and abandoned rosebush, its razor-like thorns caught my attention.
Knowing that the Rose is the symbol of Love, I was inspired by the thought that the Thorns on the Rose Bush might also play an important role in symbolizing many important aspects of a more enlightened and enduring Love. To the average observer, Roses and Thorns may appear to be opposites; however, in Nature they are quite interdependent. On most Rose Bushes they live together, sharing the same roots, stem and nutrients. Nature designed them to coexist, as the prickly Thorns evolved to protect the Roses from any animals that might be tempted to nibble at their delicate leaves and buds. Thus, the existence of the beautiful Rose blossom depends on the presence of the Thorns and vice versa. After contemplating the above, I am excited to include both the Thorns and Roses as my personal Symbol of Love.
As I became more aware of their interconnectedness, it was easier for me to understand how my own ability to Love unconditionally is directly connected to my understanding of the importance of “Loving the Thorns.” And as a perfectionist who often sought to “seek out the Thornless,” I now understand that real Loving is learning to admire and appreciate the beauty of Blossoms, while simultaneously accepting, embracing, and sometimes forgiving the presence of the Thorns!
