By Mistake or By Design?

Yesterday, while walking to an afternoon meeting in downtown New York, I came upon this planter.  Surrounded by 6 or 7 other planters all full of beautiful, pink tulips, I couldn’t stop the smile from spreading across my face as I looked at this lone, yellow tulip.  While taking this picture, I asked the question you likely asked yourself: had the gardener intended to plant this yellow tulip within the bed of pink tulips, or was it a mistake? 

Sometimes, you fit in; sometimes, you stand out.  Both have their time and place in this world. Both are beautiful choices. Staying the course, keeping an even keel, maintaining the peace and helping others (and yourself) to remain calm and balanced are reasoned choices.  Similarly, being brave and trying something new, pushing yourself to walk outside of your comfort zone, setting new boundaries are choices that set you apart, but are also reasoned choices that can help you grow.

Whether you are the pink tulip or the yellow tulip today, your choices are your own.  Own each choice and be proud of what you’ve chosen.  Have faith in yourself.  When the time comes to choose, you’ll know what is best for you.

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