Lotus

Why is the lotus flower a symbol of Buddhism? Buddhist sutra refers to the lotus flower's ability to create life and beauty from the muck of the most polluted waters. This concept drew me to Buddhist thought years ago.  

I see the role of the humanist in society as similar to the lotus flower's role in converting muck to beauty. In the most desperate situations, the humanist brings optimism and hope by being intelligent and compassionate.   It takes practice and intention for a human being to do what a lotus does naturally.