Wednesday, August 29, 2018

Do Caterpillars Poop?




"The world is vast and variable. Just as our diet must be varied and succulent for optimum health, so too the rhythms of our days must have variety and altered tempos so we can appreciate the musicality of life." ~Julia Cameron, Transitions

Since relocating to Virginia a few years ago, I've enjoyed reading the book Transitions. This entry is especially poignant with recent events in my life.

First, my doctor suggested I try the Specific Carbohydrate Diet and meds for SIBO, to solve my mystery digestive issues. Almost 30 days later, my gut health has vastly improved. Like all transitions, this new way of eating has its ups and downs. Mostly I feel super energized, but at least 2x since the beginning, bacterial die-off caused fatigue and other unpleasant digestive symptoms. (musicality of life! :)

Image result for tooting illustration

Worst though, is going out to eat, anywhere: restaurants, potlucks, friends' and family's houses. Such often brings unwanted pity from others and the need to answer the same questions yet again, along with the daunting personal question, "Will I be able to eat anything here?" Eating with others is such a communal event. We don't want to be left out or cause another to feel left out. We navigate this the best we can.

Secondly, some children visited Starry Meadows yesterday and were fascinated by all Monarch caterpillars on milkweed. They were especially fascinated by finding lots of caterpillar poop.


Kids are often wonderfully open to life as it unfolds! Even caterpillars need healthy digestion. Isn't it marvelous the way we creatures are put together?

All this to say, life is real. Everyone struggles - no one is excluded from the varied rhythms of days. Go out and be truly present. To yourself, your body, bless your ups and downs. Bless and welcome your spontaneous responses to life's ebb and flow. Once welcomed the emotions can truly be felt and released; then the mind/heart can choose a conscious ongoing response that comes from your deepest self - the way you choose to show up in the world. Rather than displaying only knee-jerk responses.

Joyfully,
Sharon

* this post is taken from an update on my Starry Meadow's website. https://www.facebook.com/StarryMeadows/