Got Roots?

I got a new tattoo yesterday.

A tree of life with other elements that are important to my life and growth.

To me, the tree of life represents growth. My personal growth. When looking at the design with a friend of mine, he remarked that there weren’t really any roots on my tree. That struck me harder than I expected.

It is true, the roots on my tree don’t seem to be deeply rooted but my tree is strong and powerful.

I grew up in a family with an emotionally absent father and a narcissist mother. Don’t get me wrong, I love them and am grateful for everything they provided me. I definitely would not be the person I am today had I grown up anywhere else.

But they didn’t provide me with strong roots.

It wasn’t safe to express emotions.

It wasn’t safe to be honest.

It wasn’t safe to be authentic.

My growth came after I moved out and was able to finally to discover who I really was. Let me tell you, this took a very long time! Many years, tears, anger, grief, 12 step programs, supportive friends and a couple of marriages.

I now stand in my power.

My tree is strong and my upwards growth has been such an amazing journey. I am so proud of who I am and what I have accomplished in my life and what I continue to accomplish every day.

I am present.

I am authentic.

I am honest.

I am still working on it all but I am true to myself and I honour my path.

Now, to lay down those roots….