Resilience, Transformation, & Irises

I continue to be convinced that the nature we encounter all around us every day teaches us about #resilience and #transformation. One such instance is the Iris. They are beautiful and come in multiple types and colors carrying various meanings and symbolism around the world. They brighten up every space you encounter whether in a mixed flower bouquet or growing in meticulously planned gardens or wild on the side of the road.

The Greek term "Iris" means rainbow (which also holds meanings of strength, brightness, and hope) and shares its name with the Greek goddess who was believed to act as a messenger between gods and humans. The term is also used in the Biblical Old Testament book of Genesis to refer to the rainbow God placed in the sky as a covenant between God and humankind.

As I read through the various meanings, colors, and types of Irises, I was reminded how each of these can help us relate to our own journey of resilience and transformation.

Outside of the literal "rainbow" translation, Iris also carries other meanings related to faith and hope, wisdom, and positive change.

The mythological symbolism varies depending on where in the world you're located: - Ancient Greek - guide the dead to heaven; clear, sophisticated communication

- China - butterfly; spring; vitality, change

- Victorian England - faith; courage; and admiration

- France - "fleur-de-lis", French royalty; religious; coat of arms; simple decoration

- Egypt - protection; power

The various colors also have meanings:

- Purple - royalty; respect

- White - purity; innocence; sympathy

- Yellow - friendships; deep relationships

- Blue - faith; hope

According to The Bouqs Company (one of my favorite places to order flowers from), "Just like there are many different Iris meanings, there are also many different Iris types! With over 200 species in the Iris genus and thousands of cultivars, you can find a type that is perfect for your garden or vase. All of these different species fall within one of two categories: perennial irises and bulb irises. Perennial irises grow from thick underground stems known as rhizomes, and bulb irises sprout from bulbs."

This got me thinking about our place in the world. Have you ever thought you weren't making a difference? Maybe you've been in a place of serving people from the sidelines and you wonder if you're making an impact or if anyone even notices. Then there are leaders who are upfront in the spotlight, well-known, and receiving accolades and recognition on a regular basis. Irises give me hope that we all have our own beauty and resilience which can lead to a transformed life. Whether we are "underground" growing through a tough environment or if we have been carefully placed in the soil via a protected "bulb." Both environments have the capacity to produce something unique and beautiful which then has the capacity to bring color and light and joy to the world around it.

Come journey in a Resilience Circle with The Center for Transforming Engagement and explore the impact your story has. Ask me how.

To read more about irises, click here: https://bouqs.com/blog/iris-meaning-and-symbolism