Embracing My Roots

Some of you may have read a humour piece I wrote about my family, showcasing some of the ... 'ridiculousness' I've come from. (Better word than dysfunction.) Most of my family are a colourful bunch, which often means challenging.

My mother once told me that sarcasm is wrong. I almost spit my drink out before telling her that I felt she was the Queen of Sarcasm and that it's one of the things I like best about her. She denied that vehemently but I'm sticking to it as truth. After all, if someone doesn't "get me" I'm not too proud to play the blame game. In fact, I enjoy saying, "I'm this way because of ... ", very much.. In actuality, I was probably molded this way but no matter the past, I have come to terms with my roots.

Putting that aside I've decided, after almost 59 years, to embrace my roots in another way. Yes, I've changed my hair colour. I've decided to own up to my age and allow the grey stripe that insists on springing to life atop my head every month, to come alive!

Two days ago, when my lovely hairdresser named Jody pulled the towel off after rinsing out the colour that would "begin the change", I stared at my suddenly more elder-looking face and sighed. She kindly said, "If you don't like it I can change it back right now," to which I answered, "Well, that wouldn't be giving this a chance now, would it?" although, in that moment, I wanted her to dump on any other colour she had in her stash. Today, however, I fussed around with it and thought, "meh ... who cares?" I look at that mediocre reaction as a healthy step as I move slowly toward acceptance.

Whether we're dealing with our family challenges or any new change in our lives, the embracing of such is sometimes a long haul. Even something we think is going to be super exciting might not always feel that way when we're stuck inside of it. At least, for me it seems so.

Glimpses from Psalm 34 come to mind when I find myself needing help in adjustment. "I sought the Lord and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Oh, taste and see that the Lord is GOOD! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!"

SIDE NOTES:

Our middle child just called and she's having some contractions. Here's hoping and praying that our 12th grandchild will be delivered safely and soundly. Also ... SOON would be nice, just because I'm impatient for our daughter of course. Sure - for her.

Also: ON MARCH 15TH - this website will take on an exciting new look, thanks to Candace Enslen! She's been working hard and, among other things, you will have the option of reading excerpts from my "Laugh at Life" humour column too! (Yes ... the blog and my column are different from one another). LOL

Have a wonderful March everyone! Spring is upon us and longer hours of daylight are welcomed!

Pattie Janzen