Untainted

The lotus flower is unstained by mud. The single dew drop, just as it is, manifests the real body of truth.

—Ikkyu, 5 Sept. Zen Calendar

The lotus is highly revered because though it grows in the murkiest of water, it produces a vibrant, beautiful flower, 'unstained by mud.' It is a symbol of enlightenment and truth. Our gross physical nature is the mud, the murk, the filth of the swamp, yet it can produce the brilliant flower of truth and enlightenment. (Photo is the Meditation Pool at Sunrise Ranch in Colorado)