Desert Thistle
Examining this thistle ended up unlocking such beauty. I think we can do this with people as well, if we use the right tools. I've seen it happen. Both a thistle and a curmudgeonly person put up big defenses. To get through eventually you have to 1.) have patience 2.) avoid the thorns but KEEP GOING 3.) watch them start to open up and recognize the great beauty they both hold inside.