The Scars of Life

Last week as I was driving home from Minnesota, I was contemplating my car.  I drive a red 1999 VW Beetle that has seen its share of bumps and bruises.  My first thought was that most people would be uncomfortable driving a vehicle that isn't perfect, but it doesn't bother me.  In fact, I generally like the imperfections of life.  My suspicions are aroused by people or things that seem perfect.  As a realist, I know that nothing is perfect.  There are no perfect people, relationships, jobs, friends, homes, etc.  Once we embrace that idea, it allows for the freedom to just accept and enjoy, rather than attempt to fix or change.

You can look at a car, a piece of furniture or a human being and see the scars that life can bring.  Having spent quite a bit of time lately with babies and young children, you can just see the newness and lack of wear that life brings.  In contrast, I think of my parents and the way they changed through aging and how I am now doing the same.  We all have inner and outer scars that make us who we are, and without those imperfections, we would be stagnant.  It's the way the world is supposed to work; for every thing there is a season. 
If you look at nature, there is a definite cycle.  This cycle also applies to humans, and unfortunately our society does not allow for that perfect cycle.  It pushes staying  young, looking young through unnatural means.  It makes me very suspicious.

Thought for today:  A beautiful thing is never perfect