Wildflowers

"Wildflowers are the loveliest of all because they grow in uncultivated soil, in those hard, rugged places where no one expects them to flourish."

I took this picture en route a drive from Shimla to Chail, a hill station in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, India. That was my first solo trip to Shimla and Chail and I said to myself, “Like wildflowers, you must allow yourself to grow in all places people thought you never would”.

When someone asks you what your favorite flower is, the first bloom to pop into your head might be something a rose or perhaps even an endearing one like the sunflower. But when you think about the type of flower that reflects your spirit the most, the wildflower probably comes to mind. Resilient, untamed, beautiful, surprising, colorful, unpredictable — there’s a lot to love about this particular blossom.

Wildflowers are usually unseeded flowers and grow on their own. Wildflowers are difficult plants to tame. They can't be controlled, and neither can the soul boundless as the sky, and a spirit as free and wild as the ocean. The stubborn flowers find ways to grow through cracks on concrete, and even in tough conditions like the side of the highway.

My point?

We all experience many obstacles in life, and you should never let those challenges stop you from pursuing your goals. Wildflowers don't let shitty circumstances determine whether or not they blossom. They just do it anyways! Be unapologetic for your passions.?Don't let unexpected events weaken your stance. Be resilient. Power through all your goals on both, the good and bad days.

Wildflowers come in all colors, shapes, and sizes. They are found in a wide range of bright and gorgeous colors. You are the same way. Your story is yours only. In the world of social media, it's so easy to fall into the trap of comparison. Don't ever let that take away from your self-worth. You are enough. You are MORE than enough. You may be dreaming about being a perfect rose, when in fact, you are a sunflower -so different, yet beautiful in your own right.

Wildflowers have no mercy. They are small and mighty. They constantly surprise people because of where they choose to root themselves. Hold yourself to that same standard.?Sometimes, we have to pave our own roads in life.

Sometimes, we have to be the one to break the glass ceilings.

That's okay!

So, dear readers of “One Step Forward”, don't be afraid to become that role model you've always looked for.?Surprise others with what you're capable of accomplishing. Even better, surprise yourself!

Be adventurous, whether that's in the miles you travel, or adopting a healthier lifestyle.

"Do you suppose she is a Wildflower?", said the Daisy....

(From Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll)