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A Blooming Sentiment

Updated Published
Bryce Mallory Student Contributor, The University of Kansas
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at KU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Did you know that flowers have held some cultural significance dating back to ancient Egypt? Flowers were used in religious ceremonies as offerings to the gods and goddesses. One of the most celebrated gift-giving flowers, the rose, can be tracked back about 5,000 years to China. So, why does this idea of flower giving still appear today? 

Today, we see flowers in all different shapes, sizes, and even materials. Flowers can be made out of paper, legos, candles, and more. The principle of what it means to give a flower is what matters, not necessarily what form it can take. 

I started to receive flowers when I was around six years old, and would get the same bouquet every year for my birthday. It would always be a beautiful display of pink gerbera daisies and I grew up loving everything about them. Because I had received flowers all my life, it quickly became my go-to gift for my friend’s and families’ birthdays. 

I have had relationships in the past where I received flowers from time to time. Each day I got them it quickly shifted my mood around. I always considered them to be a symbol of thoughtfulness and compassion. 

Thinking about flowers psychologically, it makes clear sense as to why we attribute them with love. This could be platonic or romantic, but the thought is certainly there. There are a few reasons as to why flowers can be considered one of the greatest gifts for people. 

1. The beauty of a flower:

Flowers are naturally beautiful, and some can hold an abundance of color with them as well. There is a flower out there for everyone. Some are large, others are small. Some could stand strong in the toughest of storms, and then there are those that need a little more attention. Whatever the flower may be, the alluring flower is sure to make the receiver happy (even if you’re treating yourself). 

2. Personal connections:

There are a few different meanings for this. One is simply that the receiver is connected to a certain type of flower, while another connection could be drawn between the two individuals themselves. When you not only give someone a flower, but their favorite flower, it shows that you truly know them as a person and care. 

3. A resemblance of tradition:

I spoke briefly about this area with my birthday flower story, but I think it’s important to touch on the significance of tradition with flowers. Not only could there be personal tradition, but historical tradition as well. This can be seen with having roses attributed with adoration and romance and even noticing how flowers in weddings symbolize happiness and love. 

That being said, I think it’s safe to say that the act of flower gifting will be around for a much longer time. Having this time honored tradition continue to strengthen relationships is something that is rare to come across.

Whatever the occasion may be, consider giving flowers as a gift. They have the power to brighten both the room and the person receiving them. 

Bryce Mallory is a junior writer at the University of Kansas Her Campus chapter. She is majoring in Multimedia Journalism at the KU School of Journalism with a minor in English. Some of her favorite topics to write about include books, mental health, and all things pop culture. When she is not writing for the chapter, you could find her stuck in-between the pages of books, watching movies, and hanging out with friends. She is so excited to continue writing for this amazing organization!