GIVE YOURSELF ROOM TO GROW
For my birthday, my children
sent a wonderful flower basket-it was beautifully balanced with
four houseplants artfully arranged. It will look wonderful for
a while and then I will happily divide them up and give them
each their own separate pot where they have room to grow into
their natural form and size.
Just like a family that eventually
needs to give each other space in order for each person to grow
into the size and shape that is their destiny. There comes a
time when we have to release others and let go ourselves.
Sometimes we have to separate
ourselves out from a group in order to grow. We may need more
sun and more water than a person we've been hanging out with.
As we grow, we need room to spread out to reach our full potential.
And we can't do that when we are crowded in with others. Perhaps
we find the sunlight is cut off by a taller plant, a person
who dominates or controls. Perhaps we are around a person who
belittles and begrudges. We want to be in an environment that
nourishes us, where we are fed and watered and carefully and
lovingly pruned, where we are supported when we need it or are
allowed to ramble free in joyous profusion.
We are not like plants that
have to bloom where they are planted-we can get up and move-we
can seek sunnier companions, and a more supportive environment-we
can nourish our own bodies and choose our own dreams.
As you begin to make plans for
the New Year, stake out the space you need-move to a sunnier
spot, find new ways to nourish yourself, and begin to hang out
more with like-minded friends.
And watch yourself grow.
© 2006 Cara Lumen
