Joyous Guanyin is one of the thirty-three manifestations of the bodhisattva Guanyin (Avalokiteśvara). Seated in a comfortable posture, quietly gazing upon a small lotus, her leisurely posture is an expression of contentment and ease. The calm and centered countenance of Joyous Guanyin has an edifying effect on sentient beings, subtly reminding us that even when life is at its bumpiest, there is still much goodness and beauty to be found, even in a single flower, and that we can see it by relaxing and letting go. The lotus is an important symbol in Buddhism, for it is the only plant that has flowers and fruit at the same time, making it a symbol of the dual cultivation of wisdom and compassion. Moreover, its roots, flower, and fruit coexist, symbolizing the past, present, and future.