Gentle Defiance
The Flamingo is a beautiful bird. It certainly catches the eyes of the artist in me who loves colors! This bird is quite fascinating to me, because it embodies a lot of contradictions that make it unique and beautiful.
Flamingo is a gentle and very graceful bird. It exudes calmness and gentleness, yet its very existence is, on in itself a defiance to nature’s laws! It is pink, no matter where it resides. Its nature dictates it to not bother with camouflaging or blending with its environment. It seems like it’s always out of place, and yet it is exactly where it should be.
Authenticity is what this bird shouts to me. In this world where we could feel the pressure of trying to be like the others, to blend in and belong, or ride a fleeting societal trend, we oftentimes forget to live our true authentic selves. We often fear judgment from others for being different, forgetting the fact that all of us have each of our own unique abilities and personalities, that make each of us different from the next person.
Like the Flamingo, being different is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it can be a great thing! Discovering our uniqueness, and bravely living it out can make for a richer, more fulfilling life. Each one of us, with our uniqueness, can create a beautifully blended tapestry in our society, full of colors and unique textures!
With my Flamingo painting, and my poem, I hope to convey a message of encouragement, to embody authenticity and courage to assert oneself and live your most authentic life. It is your life, and you should live it in your own terms. You are unique and beautiful just the way you are! You have so much to give to the world, quirks, and all. Shine boldly friends! Have the courage, defy the dictates of society, and just be your true authentic selves! Be that pink flamingo even in the darkest swamp! Enjoy the coming week!
Love you all!
Nina Sendrijas Jones