Blog #4: We should all be more like rocks

A friend and I held a debate last night about the pros and cons of being a rock-both metaphorically, and literally. Yes, I am aware that that is a strange topic to discuss. But in some ways it was incredibly insightful.

He held the belief that being a rock would suck. Period. Arguing that they are continually stepped on, have no one to care for them, have no legs to stand on, or arms to catch them when they are falling, and are taken advantage of. He does make a few points, I admit.

I, on the other hand, disagreed, and defended the glories of being such an overlooked item on the earth.

Here's my defense. Let's see what you think by the end of this.

Rocks are the strength of the land. They are what shape and mold the formations of the earth. Big or small, they are strong and powerful. Rocks are stable, and useful. And they, no matter if they are taken advantage of, respect their place in life. As humans, we build off of rocks (the wise man built his house upon the rock, remember) and use their firmness to place our faith, and our lives. Rocks are trustworthy.

Also, being a rock would be a humbling experience. Especially those little rocks. They are down on the ground, and have no other choice but to be continually looking up. Which is positivity at its very finest. As a rock, you are not even tempted to look down upon others, because it is virtually impossible. And no matter where they are placed in life, whether in a swamp, at the top of a cliff, or stuck under somebody's shoe, they display a complacency in the continuity of their lives. Positivity is not just being optimistic when you are in a good place. It's finding strength and hope wherever you are at. Rocks are humble.

Rocks are unafraid of heights, or daunting challenges.

Rocks are unafraid of rolling down hills.

Rocks are unafraid of taking down giants.

Rocks are kind enough to let a child skip them across the water.

Rocks are strong enough to handle vile weather.

They are tough.

They are generational.

They are generous, sacrificial, artful, serviceable.

And yes, they may be taken advantage of by those who think nothing of their use and purposefulness (aren't we all?), but they accept their responsibility and are in harmony with nature. Rocks give, and do not expect to receive. You can lean upon rocks, rest in the shadow of them, hide behind them, use them as stepping stones, climb them with no sense of offense. They encourage you to go higher. They are secure. They absorb temperature without hesitation. They are a refuge.

Rocks are stronger than men.

Now how do you feel about rocks? Still the boring spherical objects youve always seen? Or perhaps you feel sorry for taking advantage of such useful, humble things. I do.

Metaphorically, being a rock is a beautiful thing.

So, let us embrace our humanity by being flesh and blood people, by being inspired by the attitudes of rocks. We each have our place in this world. It's time to turn around and take it up in arms.

Let's step into our own skin, and see the world with brand new eyes. Fear is what holds us from accomplishing great things. Rocks are fearless, but are happy to stay where they are. I applaud them for it. But as people, we should tune our ears to change and be who we were meant to be: lionhearted, like those little rocks outside.