This sunflower inspires me.  I’ve planted these cheerful blooms in my garden a number of times, and they haven’t come up—maybe, because the birds ate the seeds.  I really don’t know. But, two summers ago, this little sunflower sprung up in the backyard of its own volition.  It didn’t just grow….it thrived.  To my surprise and joy, it bloomed and bloomed and bloomed…all summer.  This eager little flower, in its simplicity and loveliness, grew into a flourishing plant.  And, it accomplished this feat despite a lack of proper planting, no fertilizer, and without consistent watering.  I admire this sunflower for what it symbolizes to me:  determination, perseverance, and tenacity.

“Tenacity”

by Tonya R. Hengerer

Tireless

Effort to resist

Negative thinking

And overcome difficulties, while summoning

Courage

In spite of

Tough times—never

Yielding.

“Character consists of what you do on the third and fourth tries.”

~James A. Michener

“If you fell down yesterday, stand up today.”

~H.G. Wells