Carrots and Being Unique
The other day I was picking carrots. As I gently wiggled each carrot from the warm and nourishing ground I took notice on how different each of these carrots are. They were so individual, yet they were all carrots, orange, full of nutrition. Striving to grow in a garden bed that was frequented by obstacles that posed a risk to their ability to flourish. Rodents, bugs, overcrowding, nutrients. Some were short, misshapen, partially eaten, having two roots, and some long and perfect looking. All the while perfectly delicious and beautiful in every way.
What came to mind as I was sitting there was how much I see this is all of the women I know and meet. We are all women, yet we have so much individuality. Obstacles that keep us from flourishing. Too many demands crowding us, not enough nourishing family time or self-care. People biting off our heads because the profits or not up to par for THEM. Many different challenges in our lives.
We sometimes lack nourishment. Not just the nourishment that is on our plate. We could be eating the best foods and still lack nourishment. Our career, physical activity, relationships, spirituality can be really lacking. Yet we forge on keeping our career and family going on in spite of the fact we are tired, irritable, gaining some weight, having physical symptoms of stress. At times maybe even depressed although you still look like you are fine and have it all together.
You may one day go to your doctor because you are not feeling right. Having a bit of insomnia, or can’t sleep through the night. You are emotional, irritable, painful joints, your skin is changing, your gaining weight and don’t know why. Your doctor says “You are at that time in your life where things are changing. Many women go through this. Take these pills and they should help you feel better and sleep through the night. Lots of patients are on this protocol. In a month or so we can address the other symptoms if they have not resolved” Does this sound familiar? This seems to me a one size fits all solution. It’s not even a solution. It’s a band-aid to help manage your symptoms as you continue on with life as you were.
We are all different. What works for one person does not work for another. I may love and can eat dairy. While you may love it yet have stomach issues after eating it. You may love to go for walks and exercise. Your friend may hate it. We need to find what makes us thrive. What makes us tick. What gives us purpose in life. Just going through the motions because we think that is what we are supposed to do just doesn’t cut it. When we are old and on our death bed will we be looking back and saying “I lived the way I wanted too. I fulfilled my purpose and I am happy.” or will we be saying “I wish I would have taken the time to get to know Sally. I should have brought my paintings to that gallery that was interested. Yet I was to self-conscious. I wanted to take up horseback riding but I had no time for myself. I should have spent more time with my children yet I was too busy and didn’t have energy to spare.” The list can go on.
Looking at yourself as a human being worthy of wonderful things in all aspects of your life is important. YOU are important. You are so unique in what you want and need. The current diet trend, hair style, exercise program, or hot fashion may not be what is right for you. That is totally ok. Focusing on what it is you actually need to make your life more nutritious and growing to the point of happiness is an on-going process. There is no end point. We change as we age. Our priorities are different and we many feel different about things each decade we live. Managing what is right for you is a journey and it doesn’t have to be so much of a struggle. Look for people in your life who celebrate your unique abilities. These people will support you through those challenging spots and help you to grow in your own garden of life.
