Focus on the Now

For the last four months, I have been keeping myself very busy with art and craft projects while sheltering in place. These are difficult and divided times in the world, and I am staying home hoping for peace and the health of civilization. All I can do now is keep my little home and loved ones safe.

Origami is uniquely calming for me as it keeps me focused on the now. I’ve always been fascinated with paper folding, and it is very satisfying to create something beautiful out of a sheet of paper.

A Symbol of Strength

The Lotus Flower begins to grow in the deep mud, far away from the sun. During the growing process, it reaches the light becoming one of the most beautiful flowers. Known in many different cultures as a symbol of purity, enlightenment, self-regeneration, and rebirth, the Lotus is a positive symbol of perseverance and strength.
Its characteristics are a perfect analogy for the human condition: even when its roots are in the dirtiest waters, the Lotus produces the most beautiful flower.

I enjoy folding lotus flowers out of Yuzen paper or fabric. If you start with a sheet of six-inch paper or material, you will have a flower that holds a battery-operated tealight perfectly! The flowers also make great gift toppers and look great worn as a brooch. When folded out of waterproof paper, they make beautiful floating arrangements.

Better, and Stronger!

To fold the flowers in the video tutorial, you will need three sheets of Yuzen paper or colorful fabric cut six-inches square. Standard origami papers too delicate to hold up to the process and may tear.

I hope you stay safe and take good care of yourself during these challenging times. Try to stay focused on the now and be grateful for what you do have. Just like the lotus, we will get through the dark, better, stronger, and more beautiful!