Just Weaned

Disclaimer:  If you loathe self-help articles, stop here.  My retired psychotherapist self seems to need a turn with my blog.

I have a picture on my desk of a lady giving a baby donkey a drink out of a cup.  The caption reads, “Just weaned.”  It serves as a reminder to me that we are remaking ourselves each and every day—at least if we are paying attention.

Like the young donkey, we have to be nourished and ready to meet the world before we can make our world larger.  Then as you learn more about yourself the more interesting you become, and the more interests you have.

This is different than fresh out of college weaned.  I’m talking about finally knowing yourself well enough to draw what you want into your life.  And to ignore what you don’t want.

When you are self-editing this way  you become your truest self, which makes for that sought after state called happiness.  Does that mean you’re not open to trying new things?  Definitely not!  But editing for that “I’d like to explore that further!” (or not) feeling is important.

Photo by Marianne Smith

When you know yourself this way there is a connect-the-dots thing that happens.  I like rocks, for example, perhaps because I have a distinct need to be grounded.  I was not aware of this when studying rock art symbolism many moons ago.  But it hit me square in the face recently while gardening with rocks.

Being over 50 is a fascinating thing because I am always fine-tuning who I am and what I’m about.  Until you have laid the groundwork, it’s not possible to fine-tune anything.

What have you learned about yourself lately that has surprised you?  Any “just weaned” moments?  If you’re willing to share, please feel free to leave a comment.  I would love to hear about your experiences.

Marianne Smith
Writer At The Ranch
Making You Look Brilliant One Word At A Time
http://writerattheranch.com
wordsmith@writerattheranch.com