It is only upon maturation that the petals will bloom fully. In contrast to the process of a flower's growth, the human heart is born at full maturation. It is in full bloom from the very beginning of our emergence from the mother's womb. The heart is the very source of unconditional love. We only need to look at a baby to understand and see this love.
Unconditional love is the natural state of the heart and the heart is the seat of our soul.
However, in order for this heart to remain in full bloom, it must receive love and nourishment. When unconditional love is lacking from a child's life, the heart of that child will slowly begin to close. It is like we place a shield over our heart in order to protect our most precious organ. Over the years, as we live our lives and are exposed to pain, grief, hurt and sadness etc. we pile yet another layer over of our heart. We continue to pile and pile, shutting off our feelings until we are numb and no longer no how we feel.