Rosa Laevigata, the Cherokee Rose. Georgia’s state flower. When it first appeared in the US in the late 1700s, it was considered an invasive species — and still is in some places. Over time, gardeners began to cultivate it, growing it into hedges to adorn and outline their properties. In 1916, it was designated Georgia’s state flower. You might say it persisted, never giving up despite all attempts to defeat it. We’ve had a lot of talks lately about whether this is still the place for us, but what I know deep down is that staying and fighting to make things better for everyone is the only way forward. So in May I put the plan in motion to get on the books with 3rietattoos to have “Nevertheless, she persisted” permanently inked as a reminder that we don’t give up when things are tough. The Cherokee Roses make a gorgeous pairing (and tie into my love of flowers). If there’s one thing that the last few years of political and social advocacy — and the last year in particular — have taug...