Lotus

The lotus flower holds a special place in

my heart, especially in the context of my

grandmother’s homeland in Gilan

Province, near the Caspian Sea. The Anzali

Lagoon, known for its breathtaking lotus

blooms, is a symbol of resilience and

transformation. Just like the lotus rises

from the muddy, stagnant waters to bloom

into a pristine flower, it reflects the ability

to overcome adversity and emerge

beautiful. For me, the lotus is much like a

woman dancer in Iran, who, despite facing

bans and restrictions, continues to find a

way to bloom and express her beauty. I

relate to this deeply, as I experience a

sense of separation from my homeland

,like the lotus living beneath the water,

where I feel safer, protected, and able to

bloom in my own way.