Self-esteem

Those who are confident shine like a beacon and draw many like a magnet. Self-esteem percolates with zest and oozes from the pores of the phlegmatic.

Frightened by comparisons to other, confidence reshapes into timidity. The eye sees other as mighty and sturdy oak while viewing self as spindly, weak bamboo. The oak is hard and has beautiful lines of grain when polished, while bamboo’s softness splits easily and offers flexibility of movement. Both are beautiful and righteous for their purpose yet comparatively unequal.

The world would be less for the loss of either tree and the world would be less for the loss of any talent, thought, person or contribution. Confidence eludes as comparison competes bamboo with oak. Oak is good by itself. It has many roots that go a distance to hold the earth in place and offers grand shade on a hot day. Bamboo is good when grouped. It offers wind protection, and flexibility of movement, as it’s long trunks sway on the breeze.

The plight of people is to be both oaks and bamboos, sturdy when alone and flexible in groups. Shape shifting back and forth between the two can bring timidity through the power structures of superiority and inferiority.

What would oak trees do in groups? Would they still be oaks or would they compare their bark and leaves to other oaks? Do they remain sturdy and strong or become mushy with self-doubt?