All of the pictures are flowers, however the different thing is that they are all different kinds of flower. Just like us, all of us are human beings, but we are of different looks, characteristics and personalities. Even an identical twin has their differences, which further explains that why each and everyone of us is so special.

Diversity is one of the greatest gifts the world has to offer. Can you imagine that if we were all the same? If we all thought the same, dressed the same, acted as same? There would be little or no growth in society because no fresh ideas would be expressed then how could we learn and develop in this way?

Daishonin states that, "Cherry, plum, peach and damson blossoms all have their own qualities." The cherry flower is renowned for its beauty; many people enjoy seeing the cherry blossoms in the spring. The plum blooms in late in late winter--while other flowers usually bloom in the spring--and it, too, is known for its beauty. According to an old Chinese tradition, peaches are said to bring longevity and ward off evil. The damson flower's appearance is different from the others, but it is associated with assiduousness and perseverance.

From the uniqueness of all these flowers, Daishonin wanted to convey the idea that each human being is unique too. No matter how hard you try, a cherry can never become a plum and a plum can never become a cherry.


"Buddhism uses the example of flowering fruit trees- cherry, peach, plum and damson to illustrate how each person has a unique mission in life. A cherry tree fulfils its purpose by blooming and bearing fruit as a cherry tree. It never tries to be anything other than itself. It never imitates the blossoms of other flowering trees or wastes time being jealous of them. Rather it patiently bears the frosts and snows of winter, drawing energy from the earth itself, pushing its roots deeper into the soil. Then, with the arrival of spring, in a burst it unleashes all the life force that it had been storing up, sending forth countless blossoms."

Without doubt, each and everyone of you possess your special jewel, your own unique talent.

Daisaku Ikeda
-A Piece of Mirror