As I drive through town I am struck by the beautiful colors of all of the flowers blooming. It is such a welcome sight after the long dreary winter we just experienced. I am interested in one bloom in particular that seems to be intertwined with the flowers. I believe it's called the white flag bloom; otherwise known as the invisible fence. It is that imaginary line on the property that the dog is absolutely forbidden to cross. If he attempts to cross it he is met with a shock that resonates throughout his body. It is hoped that this experience will be so unpleasant that after he has tried a few times to break the barrier he will finally surrender to the shocking experience and never attempt to cross it again. The experience will be so traumatizing that even when the flags disappear he will not dare to get close to the imaginary line. So, it got me thinking. What’s my invisible fence? What’s my imaginary line that I have been so afraid to cross because of an earlier trauma? What 'shocking' experience is controlling my boundaries? It didn't take long to figure it out. I know exactly when I hit the invisible fence. I know because my body goes into a complete state of panic. It's the panic I first felt as a child and then again when my marriage ended, and then again when I realized I had created what I swore to defend against in my adulthood. It lives in my gut and in my chest. It's a feeling that brings me to my knees every time! That's my invisible fence. Here's the thing though, the flags are gone and the power has been turned off. I am free to cross the line any time I want. All I need is a little courage. Funny the things you can learn on a beautiful spring day while driving through town. So, what's your invisible fence? Do you have the courage to cross it? ~Susan Shelly
3 Comments
Lisa Adams
5/21/2014 12:46:56 pm
So glad you told me about your blog. A beautiful piece that really gets me to thinking, where is MY invisible fence? Thanks, Susan
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2/6/2017 07:31:09 pm
Susan love your blog..Such an inspiration...I'm sure by sharing your story has helped so many!! Proud to call you my friend!!💙💚💛💜💝💗
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11/15/2022 02:06:19 am
So represent section between poor. Anyone prevent election.
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