Imagine an open vast field, filled with an array of wildflowers of different shapes and sizes. Each flower has its own quirks and personality. Each flower blooms independently. Each flower focuses on itself and does not compare its growth to neighbouring flowers. In short, I feel that is what "万物皆有时" means, to "roll at your own velocity" as I quote from an old friend who once said this.
These 5 Chinese words have profound meaning, especially to ZL who commissioned this watercolour painting of a Zen-like pink Japanese Anemone, accompanied with the 5 Chinese words. ZL wanted to feel calm and "沉稳" when looking at the painting. Indeed, as I look at this watercolour painting specially made for ZL, it feels tranquil and peaceful.
If I may bring your attention to the stalk of the flower, do you feel a sense of stability? Standing tall and upright, the Japanese Anemone establishes itself confidently and effortlessly in the soil. Did you know that the Japanese Anemone is stubbornly robust when it comes to survival? If you were to try to remove it from the soil, any tiny bit of root left behind in the soil can regenerate into a brand-new plant. Once the roots are established, it is challenging to kill it. It carries a strong-willed and persistently tough spirit from within. A spirit that I can learn from as well.
As we refer back to "万物皆有时", remember that you are your own beautiful and you will bloom beautifully at your own pace. May every one of you grow wonderfully and be gracefully grounded with poise, just like this pink Japanese Anemone.