And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.
~Anais Nin~
One of my favorite quotes. It has been printed on multiple cards and tacked to my refrigerator. It has been stuck with tape on the bathroom mirror, used as a bookmark in my bible, and as a desktop image on the computer. I need to see it to be reminded that remaining in the same place will eventually become painful. The old saying rings true: IF what you’re doing isn’t working, DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT!
Compounded on last years pandemic demand for isolation, this year the nation has contended with the Arctic Blast of 2021. Confinement has presented different problems for different folks. Some dealt with power outages while others dealt with finding shelter and food. Some have suffered greatly from loneliness and fear. I simply counted my blessings. We live in a valley with steep hills that demand respect during winter episodes. The snow piled higher and the temperatures dipped low enough to set state records for this time of year.
A person like me welcomes such a break from the norm with open arms. The reflection during down time reminded me how uncomfortable being tightly confined can be. I’ve served my time in emotional prison. The breakout wasn’t easy by any means but there is no value to be put on freedom. The definition of the word speaks for itself: the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint.There is power in being free to be yourself.
You see, there is no shame in exposing and unlocking our own personal confinements. They only become more toxic the longer we choose to carry them through life. Old and familiar strongholds keep us from blossoming into our full potential. It is true that the past can leave deep scars. Sometimes we’re left with a wide open wound that precedes us wherever we go. Without even knowing it we carry the stench of rotting flesh with us into every relationship. It can become a very lonely road. Our facade fights to stay in control and cover up the damaged goods behind the smile. Shame loudly reminds us to stay hidden or the world will reject the person underneath the rubble.
Folks have different heaps of rubble. No one’s journey is the same. The only common place on the trail to freedom is the decision to dump the load of sludge that has restricted freedom from being our fuel to succeed.
I leave you with this encouragement. Let this be the day to begin walking away from the pain of remaining bound in the bud of your past, addictions, emotional baggage, physical ailments, or trauma. Take the risk of letting one petal at a time open to a beautiful blossom. I promise the journey is worth the risk. I cannot wait to hear what you found on the other side. I hope you embrace the opportunities of stillness and by all means
Enjoy the Journey – VB
