Bloom in the Heart

Ana María González Paniagua, She/Her

Editorial Team Member

Step by step, I don’t feel alone because I know that, in my struggles, I am accompanied by God. I know that not everyone has the same beliefs as me. Honestly, that is the beauty of the world, because I get to learn from others and others from me. On that note, I wrote this blog to talk informally about something I treasure deeply: Easter. 

From a young age, I have seen this date’s powerful impact on me. It has given me a certain safety because I know there is nothing I have to do alone, and I know that death on this earth does not have the last word. For those who don’t know about Easter, it is a Christian celebration that commemorates Jesus' beating death and symbolizes the forgiveness of all our sins. In a way, it alludes to the bloom of spring, where many things are reborn. This includes, at least for me, our soul, which can be reborn with more love, compassion, and growth. 

I find it fulfilling to have the mentality that we can constantly improve. We are not defined by our mistakes, but by how we right our wrongs. There is a comfort in knowing imperfection is normal, yet working hard to become better is what we should focus on. That’s what Easter means to me.

Additionally, I find the time leading up to Easter (or lent) equally significant, as it is a moment of reflection  where I can find peace in knowing that I am pushed towards spiritual development as I get to learn from Jesus’ painful moments and how his forgiveness surpassed his resentment. Not only that, but it can inspire dialogues where we get to join each other in our struggles and learn from everyone. That makes my heart happy, because I see so much empathy ingrained in a community I am a part of. 

Again, I understand Easter is not for everyone. But I want my readers to know that it is never too late to seek change, learn from others, strengthen our beliefs, and figure out the best version of ourselves.