Around our house there are lots of Pukeku. These two in particular appear to be contemplating building a nest in front of our house. Every night we watch them around the same time come over and peck around in the grassy mound out front. They are seriously odd looking birds, but so pretty in their own right.

Watching these birds reminds me how beautiful uniqueness is. The world would be such a boring place if everyone looked/acted the same, and if all the animals were exactly alike. When you come across an interesting animal with a unique look or personality, it reminds you that the world is so diverse and fascinating.

I think many people struggle with embracing their uniqueness. Our society pushes the idea of conformity - wearing the same styles, the same make up, the same hair color/style, being the same size etc...Those that are different often stand apart as "weird" or "odd" and are often times avoided. What's up with that? Why is it that we encourage conformity? Why are we, as a society, so insecure in our own form? What does it take to become confident in your own unique attributes and characteristics? These are just some musings...

As I get older I am becoming more and more happy with who I am and okay with the fact that I will never "conform" to the ideal "in" group. I will never be skinny, or tan, or stylish in the way that society dictates that beauty should be...But, I will be exactly who I am. I am learning more and more every day that I want to be me. I don't want to conform, I don't want to try and be something that I am not. I am happy to stand aside and be the Pukeku who just is what it is....

Mantra: "Inside each of us is a unique individual waiting to shine: Be exactly who you are" ~ Namaste