Dandelions

Many years ago, I was sitting in a class where we were learning about secure childhood attachment. During a reflective exercise, we were asked to choose a flower that symbolized who we are.People named roses, orchids, peonies, and the delicate Rose of Sharon.But for me?

I chose the dandelion.

A weed, yes. That’s what most people think. And maybe, for a long time, I saw myself the same way.

I started working when I was just a preteen. I left home before I turned 18. I bought my first of everything—by myself. Life wasn’t smooth or gently paved. There were moments I had to scrap, hustle, and pull myself through some truly rough patches. But deep down, I always knew: I was like the dandelion. No matter how harsh the environment, no matter how many times I was trampled or dismissed—I would survive.

When I was 23, I left my home country of Malaysia and came to Canada to build a new life. Just like a dandelion seed carried by the wind, I floated across the ocean—unrooted, uncertain, but determined. Looking back now, I see that I’ve taken root here. Slowly, steadily, I’ve built a life. I’ve established myself, grown in new soil, and weathered new seasons.

And over the years, as I began to heal and grow, I saw the dandelion differently.

I realized it's not just a weed. It’s remarkable.

Dandelions are some of the most resilient plants on Earth. They grow through cracks in concrete. They bloom in places others can’t. And every part of the plant—from root to flower—has value.

In herbal medicine, dandelions are revered. The leaves are packed with nutrients like vitamin K, A, and C. The roots support liver detoxification and digestion. The flowers can be used for skincare and even in winemaking. What’s often overlooked as unwanted or invasive is actually healing, nourishing, and strong beyond measure.

That’s the truth about many of us, isn’t it?

We’ve been called weeds. Misunderstood. Uninvited. But we’ve kept going. Growing. Rooting ourselves wherever we land. Offering beauty and medicine to the world—even when it didn’t know how to receive us.

So yes, I am a dandelion.And I’ve never been more proud.