Celebrating the Living: The Importance of Giving Roses Now

Celebrating the Living: The Importance of Giving Roses Now

The phrase “Don’t Be the Dead Artist” evokes a poignant reflection on how we appreciate and celebrate talent and genius. It brings to mind the late Basquiat, whose art now garners millions, and one wonders how he might perceive this posthumous adulation.

The act of giving roses holds deep and varied meanings. For women, it often symbolizes romance, while for men, it might be a gesture reserved for their passing — a striking irony. But beyond these traditional contexts, ‘giving someone their roses’ has evolved into a phrase symbolizing the act of offering praise and acknowledgment while they are still alive to appreciate it.

It’s perplexing and somewhat disheartening that public recognition and appreciation for one’s genius often come only after they’ve left this world. Why does society wait until someone is gone to acknowledge their brilliance? Have we become so desensitized that we fail to recognize magic when it’s right in front of us? Why withhold applause for those who entertain, inspire, and move us while they are still here?

This concept extends beyond the realm of famous artists and into our everyday lives. We often find ourselves caught up in petty disputes or focused on things beyond our control, neglecting to voice appreciation for the good that surrounds us. This pattern of overlooking the positive in favor of dwelling on the negative is a societal trend that needs addressing.

I firmly believe in the power of positivity. When we look at the content that dominates our television screens — filled with gore, betrayal, and tragedy — it’s clear that joy and inspiration are often overshadowed by bleak, sensational stories. Positive narratives seem to be the underdog, often overlooked and undervalued.

In an effort to shift this narrative, I advocate for a return to the practice of giving roses, metaphorically speaking, whenever possible. Let’s make it a point to acknowledge, celebrate, and appreciate the living — the artists, the thinkers, the everyday heroes — while they can still enjoy the fragrance of those roses. Let positivity and appreciation be the new trend we set, both in the media and in our personal interactions. Let’s not wait until it’s too late to show our admiration and gratitude.