From Red to Rose

I could not see past the flames, wanting to burn all around me.

Telling me I was 'too expansive', 'too out there', 'too wrong'. I was six.

I was young, and obedient; if they only knew how difficult it was for a shy girl to even speak up, but they didn't care.

All I saw was Red. It was the most gorgeous red you've ever seen.

I carried this Red with me, sometimes it would grow hotter, sometimes it was more muted...but always there.

My teacher suggested I paint my feelings. My reds suddenly had a space for escape, from my heart to my hand; I felt lighter, alive, and happy. Each stroke felt deeper, as I became lighter, reaching for a white to mix my red.

I painted pink as a decision to reflect this newfound softness and passion my soul was now rejoicing in.

Years later, I became a painter, and a florist.

You learn that you cannot make Pink, a color of Love, without Red.

It is because of Red I am able to embrace all that is within.

From Red to Rose.