I recently returned from a two-week journey in Italy, where I took time to explore the timeless beauty of Rome. Amidst the grandeur of its architecture and the deep, rich history of its churches, I noticed a recurring, almost quiet, symbol woven into the sacred spaces—sunflowers. This simple yet profound flower appeared in artwork, carvings, and hidden nooks, a reminder of resilience and beauty.
Sunflowers have long been a personal symbol for me. In their bright, open faces and steadfast reach toward the light, I see hope and positivity—qualities that anchor me, especially in moments that require a little extra courage. This past summer, I visited the sunflower fields near my home in Kansas, feeling the same sense of awe as I stood among their tall stalks, surrounded by a field of yellow reaching skyward. There’s something undeniably uplifting in the way they track the sun, always moving, always growing, even on cloudy days.
For me, and for many of us, symbols carry profound personal significance. They become more than just images or objects; they evolve into guiding lights, helping us reconnect with who we are and where we’re headed. I see sunflowers as a reminder to always seek the light, no matter how dark or cloudy life might feel. It’s a quiet yet powerful encouragement to stay grounded, resilient, and focused on growth.
In Roman churches, sunflowers seem to embody similar ideas. Sunflowers are not native to Italy; they were brought over from the Americas. Yet they’ve found a place in these sacred spaces, maybe for the very reason that they represent unwavering faith, a relentless pursuit of light, and a connection to something greater.
Having such a symbol in our lives can be deeply grounding. Whether it’s a sunflower, a piece of jewelry, or a simple phrase, symbols have the power to center us. They bring us back to our core values, reminding us of the qualities we want to embody and the goals we wish to pursue. They are visual markers that prompt us to reflect, to pause, and to realign with our purpose.
Perhaps you, too, have a symbol that holds meaning, something that serves as your personal reminder of strength, growth, or love. If not, maybe now is the time to explore what resonates with you—a flower, a phrase, a sound. What brings you back to yourself? What reminds you of the qualities you cherish most?
In this journey of life, it’s easy to lose sight of the light when clouds gather. Yet, just like sunflowers, we can choose to turn toward the sun, to seek out positivity and growth. Symbols can help us do just that. They are small but powerful reminders of the hope we hold within ourselves, ever present and ever reaching for something higher.
Join me for a free discovery call, where we can explore your aspirations, uncover what lights you up, and create a vision for your life that feels aligned and empowered. Let’s work together to find the symbols and strategies that will inspire growth and resilience on your unique path.
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Amanda Hahn is a Masters-trained Organization Development professional, an ICF ACC credentialed coach, Positive Intelligence Certified Coach, and Certified Leadership Coach. As an Adjunct Professor and Coaching Instructor at Pittsburg State University and Symbiosis Coaching, she brings together a deep commitment to leadership, teaching, and coaching. Through her work, she inspires curiosity, fosters purposeful growth, and empowers future leaders to make a lasting impact.
