Stripes~

Over the years, I have dedicated entire posts (yes, that is the plural form--with an S) to a myriad of “fluff” subjects including (but oh! not limited to)… glitter makeup, cupcakes, crayons, hairstyles, bicycle BFF’s, and even spent a second paying homage to the bygone fashions of the electric 80’s. On the surface, these topics may seem silly and non-important. Yet, when I dig deeper, and truly delve into the depths and richness of what they symbolize to my own psyche (and I bet to many of yours as well,) I discover that they stand for so much more.

Whether it be the summoning of sweet memories from the past, the idea of a return to an innocence of earlier days, or retaining with reckless abandon that youthful exuberance and unfettered joy we wildly wielded as children---turning my thoughts towards (and poising my pen over paper for) these images always brings a gladness and quickening to my spirit. I feel more alive, and awake.

So, yesterday evening, in light of these revelations, as yet another thunderous, tropical island storm beat at my doorstep and threatened my mood, I decided to chase the clouds of gray away by coloring my world—and adding some sassy stripes in the process! I painted my nails….oooh so pretty~

I realize lately that rain often creates a predisposition for me to be more prone to analytical emotions….pensive thought processes abound under the dark skies, and I will often find myself trapped inside with only my mind to keep me company-- its whirring and whizzing through scenarios that somehow always end up with me dissecting myself bit by bit, and left wanting. I felt this process kick into motion as the clouds rolled in over the mountains---felt the rush of emotions rise within me—but this time, rather than succumbing to these sadness-twinged inklings, I rebelled! And, reaching for the polish, I chose two colors that meant something to me….black and white. Because, on a day of gray, I still can remember that there is absolute truth…that the yin and yang of the darkness and light very much create beauty and contrast—and that by stripes I am healed….