Imperfectly Perfect
Why is it that we humans are so quick to appreciate in nature what we would never accept in ourselves? We see the beauty in an imperfectly patterned blossom, a uniquely gnarled tree limb, an oddly shaped rock. But we judge the hell out of our own imperfections. It is aggravatingly nonsensical. Would the world cease to spin if we all simply stopped seeking perfection and accepted ourselves exactly as we are? Perhaps. But there would be slew of much happier little girls and boys out there. Imagine… no shame, no self-hatred, no comparing and despairing. In fact, I’m a little convinced that we would all be a lot happier. Well, everyone except those who make money off stoking our discontent. Then again, I wonder how easy it really is to point out and capitalize on others’ imperfections if one is truly accepting of one’s own. Hmmm. I may have just discovered the key to world peace. And it’s only Sunday!
lacochran
/ September 27, 2009I love this insight. If we can appreciate imperfections in nature, we should certainly be able to appreciate them in others and ourselves. If only…
Leigh @ compactbydesign
/ October 2, 2009If only our society wasn’t inundated with thousands of commercials saying “you’re too fat, drink this tea”, you’re too skinny, eat this cake”, you’re a terrible housekeeper, buy this vacuum”, your hair is the wrong color, buy this kit”. If only all those companies would work as hard to save the planet not just their bottom lines.
emmajames
/ November 2, 2009lacochran: If only, is right. It sounds so easy, so sane, so full of common sense and yet… it is so damn difficult! But we can keep trying, right?
Leigh: Amen, sister!