Morgan Harper Nichols

Growing Quietly Before You Begin to Bloom

The metaphor also implies seasons. Not every season is meant for blooming; some are for rooting, resting, or recovery. This aligns with a broader wisdom found in many traditions that emphasize timing—Ecclesiastes 3:1 notes, “To everything there is a season,” capturing the idea that life moves in phases with different purposes. Seen this way, the absence of bloom is not necessarily failure; it may be an appropriate stage of preparation. The quote becomes a reminder to practice patience with yourself: blooming is not a constant state, and demanding it too early can lead to burnout, frustration, or shallow progress that lacks support. [...]

The Quiet Courage of Persevering Through Adversity

Transitioning from moments of acute doubt to long-term growth, it’s important to recognize that resilience can be nurtured rather than merely innate. Psychologist Angela Duckworth, in her research on ‘grit,’ describes how sticking with tasks over time is a better predictor of success than talent alone. Through repeated choices not to quit, resilience becomes a learned habit, gradually empowering individuals to withstand future storms. [...]