Budding in our garden?

Seriously, I watch with anticipation as the color starts to show through the outer petals of this flower. I wonder, is this a painful process for the flower? It looks a little stressful because of the tightness of the outer green leaves.

I am reminded about how butterfly's have to press out of their cocoons allowing their delicate wings to have the necessary fluid in their tiny veins to fly!

Oh the joy of a bloom. With patience, time, nurturing...there is gratitude for the process. This was today's moment of gratitude for me. Just thought I'd share.