The Sunflower
No one knows exactly when the Sunflower was first considered by Spiritualists to be their emblem and flower. Unfortunately the name of the person who had first suggested it has been lost in the mist of time. What we do know, is that it has been in use since 1898.
In 1928 at the Conference of the International Spiritualists Federation, the Sunflower was officially adopted by its members as the International Symbol of Spiritualism. This was a significant move. It not only eliminated any need to display or use symbols from religions other than our own but allowed the general public to recognize that Spiritualism was distinct from other teachings.
The flower, which originated in South America, derived its name from the fact that its large blossoms always turned and followed the sun. The following "motto" for Spiritualism encompasses this fact:
There have been three pastors at Springdale:
AS THE SUNFLOWER TURNS ITS FACE TO THE LIGHT OF THE SUN, SO
SPIRITUALISM TURNS THE HEART OF HUMANITY TO THE LIGHT OF TRUTH.
No other flower could be quite as appropriate, consider the following:
| Has a stong stalk to bear the weight of its many blossoms. | Builds a strong character to bear the weight of lifes many burdens. |
| Protects surrounding growth from strong heat and wind. | Protects man from ignorance and superstition. |
| Provides insects with nector unobtainable in other blossoms. | Provides knowledge unobtainable in other teachings. |
| Grows in any soil. | Requires no status. |
| Spreads its many seeds. | Our teachings are for all of humanity. |
| Has medicinal value. | Has Spiritual Healing value. |
The Sunflower Song was also presented to the delegates at the 36th Annual Convention in 1928. It was written and composed by the well known musician and composer, Grace Linn. Here are the lyrics.
You have heard the song of daisies and the roses red,
But about the old Sunflower ne'er a word is said,
But I grew here for a purpose - why, nobody knows,
I would like a place to live, as daisies and the rose!
Now, I see more than the daisies, neither do I tell,
Won't you sing a song for me? How my heart would swell!
I'm aware I have not beauty, neither graceful pose,
But I'd like some love, the same as daisies and the rose!