A special youth in my life had an assignment to “write about a special person in your life who you look up to.” She chose me, saying “Cindy Goldade is a rainbow. Each color representing a never-ending service that didn’t fail to go unnoticed.”
Extended Metaphor about Me
As a parent, 4-H volunteer, college professor and International Faculty for Brain Gym®, I know my words and actions are observed. This extended metaphorical poem written about me by a teenager eloquently showcases the breadth and depth of one’s observations.
The rainbow appeared after a devastating storm that wrecked the lives of many. The color red is the portion of the rainbow painted in passion and care. It wraps around the other colors to protect them and keep them vibrant. The orange and yellow scream happiness as this layer of the rainbow keeps the determination, perseverance and optimism alive. The green layer saves lives. It shouts out the need for community and preservation of environment and nature, while emphasizing the role of leadership. Blue is the color of purity and selflessness. This layer endlessly gives its time by providing nutrients, shelter and care for its counterparts. Lastly, indigo and purple keep the rest of the layers in check by providing rest and self care. These layers act as buffers to make sure the system continues to thrive every day.
Have you every heard of a rainbow that shines all day every day? I sure have.
My interpretation
First, I am moved to tears. Someone wrote a poem about ME! I told my husband who said, “Why are you surprised?” After a day of reflection, I want to share my interpretation.
Red = Passion
I care about systemic wellness. When I see someone struggling, I offer support outwardly and/or inwardly. Sometimes I struggle with myself and I do my best to model self-care. When I’m in the red zone, watch out—passion can be fiery anger as much as it can be red-hot passionate love!
Orange/Yellow = Joy
Having fun is a primary tenet of 4-H and I do my best to keep that at the forefront. Whether it’s offering a gluten/sugar free treat to a hungry youth or recognizing hard work with a high five, smiles and laughter represent fun!
Green = Life saving
This description by the writer socks me in the gut! Saving lives is quite a responsibility. And yet, recognizing names, instilling a sense of community, and being around model leaders can be life changing.
As a sidenote, are “leaders” always lifesavers? No. Leaders, and kids of leaders, are human. Sometimes we fail. It can be mortifying for all involved parties. Recently I found myself on the receiving end of a terrible error. The pain was real. A day later a youth whom I close to was involved in the causation of another’s hurt and the pain that I, as the adult, felt was real. I’ve prayed really hard about both of these situations and come to the conclusion that there was not conscious malicious intent in either case. Sometimes life presents us with unfortunate circumstances. My mom once told me, “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” We can choose to sink or swim, to wallow or learn, to take the low road or the high road. I choose the high road of reflection for a growth-filled life!
Blue = Purity and Selflessness
It isn’t about me. It is about helping each person feel safe enough to grow, learn, and find joy in the process. Nutrients, shelter and care are mentioned in the poem. Many will attest to me constantly checking in, “Have you drank some water?” “Have you eaten?” “Aren’t you hot/cold?” “Can I get you ______?” Physical comfort precedes all else—it’s a brain fact!
Indigo and Purple = Rest and Self Care.
After a disappointment, some need time and space to process. Others need a joke and humor to bounce back. Sometimes a sincere hug is the remedy. There was a moment recently where someone suffered a huge letdown. She asked me to go with her. So I did. We sat and sobbed together. We moved through the rainbow of passionate anger, deep sadness, ironic satiric humor, and life saving grace. After some deep breaths, she and I were ready to ready to return to the group. Both of us were able to let go and participate selflessly in the group events. We self-cared—and it felt good!
4-H is a Pot of Gold at the end of the Rainbow.
Rainbow of Service
The pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is personal recognition and reflection. Did I do my best? If I didn’t, what can I do differently? Is further action required or is it best to let it go?
(c) 2017 cindy goldade, in-motion intelligence
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