Give Them Their Flowers

Our mission at Social Flowers is to help people create connections through the gift of flowers. As a company, we face challenges with this goal, but I’m concerned that as a nation, we face the much greater task of feeling and being connected.

Politics is dividing us and polarizing our beliefs, words, and even our actions. I’ve imagined something, it almost seems like a hopeful dream, but it’s bringing me joy.

Donald Trump announced that he would not tax tips for service workers if he’s elected President. Kamala Harris is also in favor of this and announced the same after Trump did. I don’t know if her announcement was inspired or accelerated by Trump, but if it was, this is where my imagination came in.

At the debate, what if Harris gave credit to Trump for influencing her action? This would exemplify humility, grace, and a big heart and create a moment that transcends politics, one in which connection rises above competition.

There’s a powerful expression in Black culture that perfectly captures this, “give them their flowers”. It encourages giving someone their well-deserved praise, honoring them with words of appreciation. Recognizing the good in others, particularly when we see them as different, can bring us together when we have the courage to do so. 

Harris would be giving Trump his flowers, and our collective wound a stitch. A small moment of healing, one of many that are needed in our journey toward being connected.  

Brian
Founder, Social Flowers