I spent a morning walking through one of the most beautiful of villages in southern France, Camon. It is known here for it’s roses. They grow outside homes with no particular protection or special feed, they just seem to spring up from the sidewalk and rubble. And they just don’t grow, they flourish. The roses bring an incredible beauty to a rustic backdrop and they make everything around them beautiful too. I couldn’t help but think about people who I have known who also shared a similar experience. Those who, despite their upbringing and sad start in life, defeated the odds and went on to success, regardless of how you measure that word.
How many of us hold onto that identity we created of ourselves to stay safe or comfortable? And where did we get that sense of who we are? Do we blame others for our circumstances, our looks, our finances, our status? And if we do, then why? Why is it easier to look outside the problem than within? Because it takes accountability, strength and resilience to look at yourself and decide you can be whoever or whatever you want. Once you have done that, there is work to do. Making that decision come to life.
I noticed this one particular rose bush today. It is growing in a small hollow of rubble on a stone step against the wall. Not only have people brushed past it over the years going in and out of the house, they probably stepped on it too. I don’t believe any special attention was given to the rose bush. But just look how those roots held and the branches spread out, each limb giving life to scores of blossoms. Each blossom providing a perfume and elegance. The overall effect is stunning. One lowly plant on the pathway of others has found a way to survive, to thrive and does so with style.
What is it that you need to overcome? Don’t let your present or past circumstances dictate your future. With grace, and determination – you can and will achieve. Believe me, I know.
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