“Though fairy tales end after ten pages, our lives do not. We are multi-volume sets. In our lives, even though one episode amounts to a crash and burn, there is always another episode awaiting us and then another. There are always more opportunities to get it right, to fashion our lives in the ways we deserve to have them. Don't waste your time hating a failure. Failure is a greater teacher than success.”
I've just finished re-reading this fantastic book, and was reminded, once again, about the ebbs and flows we, as women, experience during our lives. We laugh and we cry; we feel like we are on top of the world, and just as quickly as we reach a pinnacle, we plummet back down to a crevasse. For so long, I thought I was alone on this crazy journey of emotional ups and downs, seeking answers from all the wrong places. Yes, I do not deny that depression is real, and must be addressed holistically. But I'm speaking here about the normal, natural cycles that women experience from a very early age, and will continue to experience as she matures through life.
One day, we are brilliant, bright hues of reds and oranges and yellows; passionate and expressive, overflowing with creativity and abundance of joy and love. During this cycle, we immerse ourselves in loving and learning and playing. Our muse is surrounding us, and we go with her, freely and fully. These are the days we will not forget. We don't want to forget; we'd live here forever if we could. But then it happens. A little gray sets in and the next thing you know, we are catapulted into a deep, dark place that feels so lonely and remote.
During this cycle, we feel sad and empty, and seek solace from what feels like never ending drama and chaos. We are bone tired; exhausted. We withdraw, and enter into our silence, where we ultimately get back in touch with our souls, which is where true healing takes place.
We become grateful again, and just like the first daffodils peeking out of the cold earth as Spring slowly appears, we emerge with a softness and gentleness that only we can understand. Here, we weep because we are happy. We embrace and live in the moments of simple pleasures like spoiling those we love. This space is like a little piece of heaven on earth.
You see, we are all kaleidoscopes of color and emotion, and it's okay to encompass ALL the hues of life. It's a beautiful life and without the darker hues, we'd never realize the full brilliance of all those beautiful, bright, lovely colors.
Just remember that you own your rainbow and
you are the creator of your own masterpiece.
Don't allow others to paint your canvas!
