Parsons Challenge

In a world where everything is about efficiency, we should take a moment and breathe in something from the past. I fell in love with a beautiful rustic farm house at the age of 13. The old red barn with chipped paint and rusty tools was drenched in ivy. It was perfect in every single way. One fall day I put all of my manners behind me and knocked on the pine door. I met an unkempt woman who was taking care of not only her aging mother, but also her childhood home. She agreed to me looking around the house; I came around a corner that was, at first glance, just a pile of miscellaneous junk, but as I studied the scene I realized how glorious it was. It was a tattered clothesline left as a reminder of her hardworking mother’s life. As I stood gaping, a feeling of sadness encompassed me. I realized that my life is hectic, but I needed to pause and remember my mother’s “clothesline” that has enabled me to chase my goals.

Everyone who is familiar with The Wizard of Oz knows that the stern tin man is searching for a heart. I have come across a modern day tin man as I spend more time at the local assisted living home. Mr. Jack is a six foot tall man with white hair, crisp khakis, and a chrome walker. I always noticed that he sat alone in the main room scowling. I approached him, slightly afraid of his harsh demeanor, and began talking to him. I found out that Mr. Jack was simply hardened by old age, but he is still a loving and proud father to three children, married to his childhood love, and always has a hankering for southern food. He showed me pictures and stories from his past for hours. I realized that no matter how rigid a person may seem from the exterior, every interior has a warm heart that is simply waiting to be discovered. Sometimes all it takes is another person willing to listen to help the tin man find his heart.

It is a familiar scene in my life. I lie crumpled in a ball sobbing as I realize how many assignments I am attempting to juggle. Of course moments later I dry my salty tears and produce some of my best work with ease. Growing up in a competitive family who demands that we try our best has made me strive for excellence. I am so grateful for this mindset, but at the same time I often forget to take care of myself. I get so caught up in school, honor societies, and family. I sometimes forget to light a candle and simply exhale. As I move on with my life I am realizing how important it is to nurture my inner needs. It is imperative to take the time to walk barefoot in the grass instead of constantly running through the streets with callused soles.