A couple – while on holiday – decided to try something different – and went to a pottery session – with the express intention – to each make the other a present.

Their choice – was to make a cup and saucer – each choosing the colour and pattern that would be meaningful to the other.

Later in the holiday – they collected their creations – (having had to leave them in the kiln for a while) – and you can probably imagine the disappointment for one of them – when they discovered that the cup they had created – had a small crack in it.

However – the reaction from both of them – was that the crack was not important – what was important – was that the cup had been created with love – and therefore – was perfectly – imperfect.

I can almost imagine that cup saying to them – “I am beautifully broken – perfectly imperfect – beautiful in my flaws – all together – I am a beautiful disaster”

The meaning of – ‘perfectly imperfect’ – is described here in this way – “Being perfectly imperfect – means embracing your flaws – mistakes – and unique quirks – instead of chasing an impossible standard of perfection”.

Much as they recognised – that the crack was not something to see in a negative way – I love it that I can view life like that too.

And understand that actually – as this quote puts it – almost following the thoughts on that cup – “Imperfection adds character and depth to life – much like the cracks in a vase – make it more interesting”.

That striving to be perfect is something that – as I look back on my life – has been there from time to time. But all that does – is create stress – and cause me to view both myself – my life – as less than perfect.

I guess it’s the experiences in my life – that have finally taught me – that I don’t have to be perfect – and that most of the time – others don’t expect that of my either.

Those close to me – know me – with all my imperfections – and yet have always loved me – and that is really the only thing that matters.

Even as I write – the lyrics from the song- ‘All Of Me’ – written by John Legend – come to mind – where he sings -“ ‘Cause all of me – loves all of you – love your curves and all your edges – all your perfect imperfections”

And as someone here says – “I realised that I don’t have to be perfect – all I have to do is to show up – and enjoy the messy – imperfect – beautiful journey of my life” .

And that is what I intend to do. Always being grateful – for what the simple – everyday things continue to teach me – and how they encourage me on my way.

Blessings – Lois