Recently I read an article about how journalism had lost its way during the chaos and ignominy of the previous administration, resorting to more and more stories of anger and catastrophe.
The author suggested that for journalism to regain its social role it needs to tell stories of hope, agency, and dignity.
The Mexican Lilies in my garden represent such a story. These lilies bloom for one day only, revealing that there is more to life than showing off.
HOPE
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| This bud reaching toward the sky exudes the hope of growth and renewal. |
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| Here we see it beginning to unfold into a blossom. |
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| This one looks as though it's yawning. Do I really want to see what's around me? |
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| Here we are in all our outrageous beauty! |
AGENCY
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| Producing pollen for bees, butterflies, and significant others. |
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| Moving on. As new lilies bloom, older ones are ready to let go of their youth. |
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| On the same stalk, one lily is ready to move on while two buds prepare to bloom tomorrow. |
DIGNITY
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| Blossoms closing; preparing for what comes next. |
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| Stagers of release. |
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| This mature plant had four blossoms. Each blossom left behind a seed pod. After the pods dry out, seeds will be released for new lilies to grow. |
WATCHING
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| All the while Buddha and I are paying attention. |
