From Petals to Personality: Blooming in September with the Aster
Submitted by Jodie Li
Born in September, my birth month flower is the aster—a delicate yet resilient flower known as the “star of the garden.” Its vibrant colors and rich symbolism reflect who I’ve grown to be: my personality, values, and journey as a young woman navigating her early 20s.
Asters are challengers and overcomers, blooming in late summer and early fall when other flowers fade. This resilience mirrors my approach to life. Like the aster, I’ve learned to adapt and grow, even when faced with obstacles. Life can be harsh, and personal challenges or pursuing goals often feel like uphill battles. But stepping back doesn’t mean giving up—it means finding the next season to flourish again. I strive to remain determined, no matter the hands I am dealt with.
Asters come in a variety of colors—purple, pink, blue, and white—each with its own unique charm. To me, this diversity reflects my multifaceted personality. I see myself as someone who embraces creativity and self-expression, much like the aster’s vibrant petals. I also tend to see life from multiple perspectives, often finding it hard to pick a side because I understand everyone’s story and emotions. My colors shine through in how I interact with friends, family, and relationships, how I perceive the world, and how I share my creativity, ideas, and interests.
In the language of flowers, asters are a symbol of love, wisdom, and faith. These meanings feel deeply personal. I find that my path in life has been full of love, even in my darkest moments. I share and receive the most love from my family and friends. Wisdom, too, is something I value greatly and hope to gain more of. Like the aster, I believe in learning from experiences and becoming stronger with time.
Asters are also associated with patience and elegance, qualities I admire and strive to embody. At this stage in my life, where socializing and building connections are so important, I want to be approachable and kind without losing my authenticity. I’m learning to take life one step at a time, appreciating the present moment instead of constantly worrying about the future, which can lead to endless stress. As someone who values self-improvement and mental health, the aster’s symbolism feels like a gentle reminder to stay true to myself and my values.
Just as the aster blooms in September, I find myself growing during this time of year. It’s a season of transition, where the summer warmth starts to turn into a crisp autumn. For me, this period marks another birthday and the approach of a new year—a perfect opportunity to reflect on the past months. I look back at the steps I’ve taken, where they’ve led me, and what I need to focus on to achieve my goals. This transition is a time to embrace change and celebrate what I’ve achieved in my life.
In many ways, the aster is more than just my birth month flower; it’s a symbol of who I am and who I aspire to be. With every September, I hope to carry the spirit of the aster with me—to bloom boldly and vibrantly, to love deeply, and to embrace life with resilience.
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