The lotus, that lovely Oriental flower, is much used as a symbol of the goal we have to gain. It grows in mud but is not spotted by it. It rests on water but is never stained by it. Its color is pure white in striking contrast to the dirty surroundings which are its home. So one's inner life must be undefiled, unstained and pure even though his outer life is perforce carried on under the most materialistic surroundings or among the most sensual people.