The Ranunculus Reminder: Bloom in Layers

February is here. In this season of love and, more importantly, the season of falling in love with the woman you are becoming, without a doubt, Ranunculus flowers are our chosen muse.

Widely recognized as the "Persian Buttercup," this romantic flower blossoms with delicate petals that are tightly packed and sprout in a variety of colors: ruby reds, yellows, bright oranges, pink, and white. Beneath the beautifully fragile petals lie a rich, layered history.

The name Ranunculus literally translates to "Little Frog," a nickname from its original home in Southwest Asia. It’s earned this name because it was found growing along the muddy banks of streams where frogs were plentiful. The flower traveled across the seas to Europe in the 16th century.

The Ranunculus came ashore in the Victorian era and became a symbol of attractiveness, playfulness, and cheerfulness. To gift someone a bouquet was a boastful way to say, "Hey there, I am stunned by your charms," and was commonly sent in the early stages of courtship. 

Like most flowers, the meaning of Ranunculus represents a spirit that refused to be hardened by the world, choosing instead to bloom. These flowers especially serve as a note to embrace moments of playfulness despite the shadows of the world. As we appreciate the beauty of flowers, we are not to ignore the problems humans face, but to understand the Law of Polarity. 

Taking the action to choose the Persian Buttercup as a visual reminder of your multidimensional nature is how we embrace its symbolism. Just as this flower is defined by its hundreds of intricate layers, you too are not a single layer but are multifaceted.

You are allowed to be serious when the moment demands it. You are allowed to be stern in your boundaries and your standards. These are the layers that protect your peace. But you are also called to be playful.

As a tribute to the Victorian meaning of Ranunculus, let these beauties give you a small nudge. A nudge to know it's safe to experience cheerfulness even when the world reflects the shadows. You are certainly allowed to be radiant.

In February, we aren't just celebrating love. We are honoring the internal evolution we each get to experience and learn to appreciate in this lifetime. 

Falling in love with the work. Falling in love with the transition. Falling in love with the woman you are becoming.