Embrace, Growth, Resilience, Change & Determination:
- Michaela Ratcliff
- Jul 16, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 17, 2023
“Fuck it, I will bloom”!
I have been driving by the trash dumping place for the small neighborhood, here in the Algarve for quite a while now. Besides the state of it, and the not so perfect recycling concept, I had taken note of someone dumping cacti there. Most likely part of a renovation project since the cacti was dumped together with some bricks, mortar, cement etc. I had considered taking some of the cacti to plant on the property here so it would not just die and rot … it seemed so sad. However, I did not have the right tools to pick it up, like metal armor perhaps? It was so very, very poky, however not poky enough to avoid being evicted from its original place of home.
This morning I stopped again to get rid of my trash and then I saw it … two huge blooms, amidst the rubble. Incredible! After all these weeks some of the cacti said … “Fuck it; I will bloom”
It hit me straight into the heart … my very core too … “Fuck it; I will bloom” I said out loud and smiled … how symbolic it was and how absolutely perfect for my current state of mind — I am sitting here 24 hours later and am still smiling.
Just like those cacti that find ways to bloom in new, unexpected, unusual, unexpected places, we as humans, too, encounter opportunities to grow and flourish amid the challenges life throws our way. In this blog, we will explore the profound significance of resilience and determination in our quest for personal growth, learning how to embrace change, navigate the unknown, and become the architects of our destiny.
Life truly is a magnificent journey, filled with trials, triumphs, growing pains, boundaries, freedoms, obstacles, joys, sorrows and so much more.
So how about that Resilience?
Resilience: The Art of Weathering Storms
Resilience is the art of bouncing back from adversity, not just surviving but thriving despite life's storms. It is a fundamental quality that empowers us to face setbacks with courage and perseverance. When we embrace resilience, we understand that setbacks are not permanent roadblocks but stepping stones towards growth. Every challenge becomes an opportunity for learning and self-discovery. Like a resilient flower that adapts to its surroundings, we, too, learn to evolve and find strength in difficult times. That cacti “raised a hand” … perhaps more like “raised the middle finger” … That cacti is teaching me a lesson!
Wow, that sounds pretty great; yet the reality of “bouncing back” can feel like someone has a firm hold on the back of your neck and is dunking you into stale, shitty tasting murky waters … leaving you coming up gasping for air as the murky crap is running down your throat like bile. So, to learn and know how to “bounce” is of utmost importance … I am really trying to figure this out and I think perhaps “plasticity” is the key element necessary for resilience … what are your thoughts on that?
Growth! Don’t give up … they say!
Determination: The Fuel for Progress
Determination is the driving force that keeps us going, even when the path seems daunting and uncertain. It is the unwavering commitment (well sometimes they waver and that is totally fine too )to our goals, the unyielding belief in our abilities, and the refusal to give up. As we cultivate determination, we embrace discomfort and embrace change, recognizing that personal growth often requires stepping out of our comfort zones.
Again, that cacti was ripped from it’s comfort zone and for a while (a few weeks) just started dying there, in the rubble … the choice was, to die and just expire OR … to die and go out with a bang, to bloom, to create something beautiful, to grab my attention in a way that had me use two long sticks like chopsticks … and transport the cacti into a bag and back to a garden where I proceeded to plant it.
I should aim to be just like this cacti, to live, to reach for the sunlight, to bloom; to persevere, to stretch myself, and find new ways to grow. AND yeah, I definitely need to work on growing some beautiful spikes too as they do come in handy; there is nothing wrong with owning some healthy self defense mechanisms I just now determined … spikes are beautiful.
Navigating the Unknown: Embracing Change!
Personal growth is a journey of self-discovery, and to embark on this path,I think we must learn to navigate the unknown with an open heart and a curious mind. Like a seed planted in new soil, we embrace change and the opportunities it brings. We shed limiting beliefs and welcome the possibility of transformation. Stepping into the unknown requires courage, but as we explore uncharted territory, we uncover hidden potential and discover facets of ourselves we never knew existed
Cultivating Self-Belief: The Power of Positivity and Resilience
A positive mindset and self-belief are essential in our journey of growth That cacti started growing a bloom after being cut down and being dumped without regard. Symbolically that is a sign of bravery and positivity.
Just as water and sunlight nourish a plant, self-belief nurtures our spirits and allows us to thrive. When we believe in ourselves and our capabilities, we unlock the door to endless possibilities. Positive affirmations replace self-doubt, empowering us to see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Embracing self-belief enables us to embrace challenges with confidence, knowing we have the strength to overcome them.
In the grand ever changing tapestry of life, resilience, self-belief, and determination weave together, creating a masterpiece of personal growth. Embracing resilience, we learn to weather life's storms and find strength in adversity. With determination as our compass, we navigate uncharted territory, overcome pain, embrace new ways of living … we can thrive in new places. Embracing change and cultivating self-belief, we unfold our full potential and bloom in ways we never thought possible.
Dear reader, as you journey through your through life, may you remember the power of resilience and determination. Embrace challenges with courage, seek growth in every experience, and allow yourself to bloom in the most unexpected places. I surely will do my very best and try very hard and if I am ever cut down I will sure as hell get up and rise and say:
Fuck it, I will bloom!
Comments