The lotus flower is higher than the stem and root
The lotus flower is more beautiful than the stem and root

But the lotus flower needs the stem to carry the water for it (lotus) to be alive

The stem is higher than the root
But the stem needs the root to absorb the water for it (stem) to be alive
The root also needs the seed to provide nutrition for it (root) to grow at the first place,

This is known as interdependence of life.

Now relate the lotus flower as one that is in high status in social position
Now relate the stem and root as those that are in low status in social position

In truth, just like lotus flower depend on stem and root, so does
those in high status in social position need those in low status in social position to live or to be in high position.

Such as a CEO of a factory (high status) needs the workers (low status) to run the factory.

This is known as interdependence of life.

I need you, you need me
They need you, you need them