07/27/2026
DID YOU KNOW: The Lotus (not to be confused with the Water Lilly) is the only known plant whose flower, fruit, and seeds develop simultaneously. The early Buddhists chose the Lotus as the symbol of Buddhism partially as a result of this observation. This simultaneous development became the symbol for the devout Buddhist whose enlightenment is simultaneous with the walking on the Buddhist path - that is, practice and attainment as rising simultaneously. The Lotus can only grow in still, muddy water. Yet its leaves and flowers rise over the three feet above the the surface of the muddy water. Muddy water poured over the leaves will run off the sides like beads of mercury. Though the Lotus may live in muddy water, it remains unstained by it. Buddhists are encouraged to be like the Lotus, not hating even while living amongst those who do, not giving way to anger even while living amongst those who do, not giving in to greed and self-centeredness even while living amongst those who do.
- Rev. Mas
