The Flamingo, an Unlikely Anchor
When I moved to Florida in 2023, I was quickly immersed in the vibrant and lively beach culture: palm trees swaying in the warm breeze, soft sand beneath my feet, colorful beach blankets spread out for relaxation, flip-flops making their distinctive sound as I walked, and whimsical flamingos adding a splash of fun on everything, everywhere you looked. These delightful bits of graphic design adorned everything from trendy clothing to charming home decor, capturing the essence of the Florida lifestyle. However, it all felt a bit too kitschy for my personal taste. Over the past few years, I’ve developed a preference for less ‘color’ in my surroundings; I find that I appreciate a style that is a bit more refined, a bit more tranquil, and ultimately, more calming. My small apartment was painted a crisp all-white, and although I had permission to paint the walls any color I desired, I knew I wasn’t going to want to embark on the task of repainting them all again if I decided to move when my work was up. This choice provided me with a lovely neutral palette that allowed me to create a serene atmosphere in my living space.
Being such a busy person, a true social butterfly who spent most of my day working closely with people, I found great comfort in the calmness of the ocean and the beautiful colors of the sea and the sand. But there was something truly enchanting about those plucky long-necked flamingos that whimsically called to my inner child. I began noticing all the playful sayings about them on fun shirts and quirky signs, and soon realized just what a marvelous and captivating creature they truly are!
Flamingo facts that you may not know: They don’t just thrive in vibrant tropical paradises; surprisingly, they also inhabit extremely high-altitude areas where the water around them can freeze solid overnight. In the crisp morning light, these remarkable birds patiently wait for the water to thaw before they get moving again. Additionally, they have adapted to survive in toxic environments, where the water is so polluted or salty that most other creatures simply cannot endure. Astonishingly, they can even drink boiling water without any harm!
These beautiful and vibrant birds were obviously more than just their showy feathers and striking outward appearances; they are incredible survivors in a world full of challenges! They serve as a perfect example of patience in unsettling circumstances, showcasing remarkable resilience and adaptability. As a Holistic Health Practitioner, I truly loved what they represented and how they embody life’s lessons. These long-legged fowl effortlessly sleep on one leg, which reminds us to practice balance in all aspects of our lives. The way they strut their stunning colors inspires us to wholeheartedly embrace our individuality and express our true selves. Additionally, flamingos thrive in large colonies, teaching us about the strength of community and the importance of leaning on each other for support. These profound qualities are my “WHY” for being my authentic self every day.
Sure enough, when the six months was finally up, I made the exciting decision to move to the beautiful and rugged landscapes of Alaska to be closer to my daughter and her wonderful growing family. There are certainly no flamingos here, nor will there ever be, and my enduring desire to surround myself with a more neutral, quiet environment has not changed one bit. However, there are some meaningful things we absolutely NEED to keep in our daily eyesight. These “anchors” serve as powerful reminders of our important goals, as well as the underlying reasons behind our “why”… so in the midst of the soft grays, cozy taupe and wintery whites, you’ll find one bright bird that instantly brings a smile to my face and a reminder to my inner self - stand tall, seek balance, wait patiently, adapt as needed and be there for someone to lean on!
What animal, place, song or thing do you use as an “anchor” in your life? Something to remind you of your “why”?
