Setting boundaries can be a tricky thing, but we have to do it. If we don’t, we can be manipulated so easily. Especially women. Why? Because we are typically the nurturers, the caretakers, the keeper of the keys to the family. The purpose of having boundaries is to protect and take care of ourselves. We need to be able to tell other people (yes, especially those we love) when they are acting in ways that are not acceptable to us. We have not only the right, but the duty, to take responsibility for how we allow others to treat us.
Once upon a time, long, long ago, humans lived in a matriarchal society, where the feminine energy was dominant. Eventually that changed into a more male dominated energy. Even though women have made tremendous strides in so many areas, setting healthy boundaries is pretty important. And it’s equally as important for men. Have you ever felt like you’ve given yourself away to everyone else? If so, what’s left for you? How can you give if you don’t have enough energy to take care of yourself?
I’ve been there … got the t-shirt, complete with the tear stains and I’m here to say … today … that I’m just not going there again.
Today’s photo is a Barrel Cactus in my yard. I believe it has some pretty visible boundaries and you can bet I won’t be crossing them. I respect this cactus for what it is. Namaste’
Ooooooohh, love the cactus!! And I like the topic of boundaries….setting some myself!
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You go, girl!
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Gina, Your picture is so clear it looks as if I would prick my finger if I touched it. The spines on top look like fuzzy hair because of the lighting. The golden spines and the dark green color of the cactus flesh are quite lovely. A striking picture due to its clarity and contrast. Thank you.
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Thank you, Gigi. I love backlit photos and will find them any place and time that I can. And yes, this cactus is a prickly guy … I was hoping I didn’t fall forward as I shot the picture 🙂
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Love the photo and respect the boundaries that it depicts… its important that the boundaries set are respected both ways… keep the cactus in the yard, and I’ll stay away from it…
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So true. Don’t worry, I said nice things to that cactus while shooting the picture. I didn’t want it to hurt me 🙂
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fantastic shot!
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Thanks, Joanna.
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In my native Texas the barrel cactus is called “horse crippler” because it can cripple a horse in the wild running up against it inadvertently.
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They are pretty dangerous. I feel sorry for the horses.
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