Bamboo

We knew bamboo was a fast growing plant, but didn't quite get how fast.  This bamboo, 2-3" diameter and over 20 ft tall is new this year!  Apparently it can grow up to 3 ft in one day after a good rain!  

We had a man stop us to chat in Guilin last week.  He said he is an art teacher doing an exchange at UCLA in February.  He took us to his wife's souvenir stand and pulled out the special paintings rolled together in a box.  I did buy one - he painted in a looser style that I really loved.  Impression Chinese style.  I actually would love to take classes from him.  

Anyhow, back to bamboo.  He told us the 5 important things about bamboo and why it was a symbol of how people should live their lives. 

1. The knots/joints symbolize faithfulness and loyalty. (Especially to your parents, kids!)

2.  The hollow stalk symbolizes modesty.  We do not know everything.  We need to fill up the openness with more knowledge. 

3.  It is fast growing which symbolizes a hope for prosperity.

4.  It grows in big clumps symbolizing living in harmony with others. 

5.  It can bend without breaking, symbolizing flexibility and open mindedness.

Go forth and be like bamboo!!

Marnie