The Heart and Radish

Recently, I came upon a painting of what appeared to be a child experiencing famine, holding a radish. At first I did not think much of it, but as I stopped in front of it one last time I was drawn to it, intensely. Somehow it now spoke to me, it captured my attention. It’s as if it needed to speak with its eyes and I admired the beauty captured in the radish it was gently holding. The lighting, the background a faded darkness, in the forefront this child with a childlike expression. An expression of hope, maybe content, a glimpse of peace. Standing at ease, in his torn clothing, happily holding a white radish.

The day carried on and I did not think much of it, till today. I reflected on that day and how every single aspect tied together could be related to this painting. If you’re familiar with my work, you know that I am BIG on symbolism, spiritual meanings of birds, plants and numerology. I have to always dig deeper into knowing what message life is trying to convey. A radish, however small, is a symbol of Respect. Radishes are also heart friendly. Something so small, significantly good. 

How often do we trouble our hearts with the most mundane aspects of life? How often do we make our hearts skip a beat at the thought of our worst fears? How often do we ignore all our blessings? The simple things, often overlooked like the thought of a simple radish. Oftentimes craving more and more. Without realizing or drawing our attention to what we already have. In the midst of what we perceive to be despair are often messages, meant to fill out hearts with what is good for our soul. Being content with what is already attained while on our path, practicing gratitude in the simple pleasures is a sure way to supersede our own desires. If we are focused on what we have, what we are given and are grateful for all, all that is meant for us will surely make its way to our presence. I think the heart of this young child reflected in the painting knew that this radish was a symbol of hope, of happiness and the inevitable evolving change for the better.

When hungry, a radish too can be a celebrated feast.