“Life is Like a”…..Cow Trail?

​So I had an epiphany during my quiet, inspirational time (aka: putting on makeup before work, the only time my mind seems to slow down besides showering) and for some reason started reflecting back to my childhood, realizing paths in life are like following cattle trails. And what I mean is, cows follow each other in single file lines on well beaten paths to get to their destination, whether it’s across a pasture or through the woods they create what’s known as ‘desire paths’. Occasionally they veer off to graze and roam a bit, but when they’re moving to a destination they use trails. Just like people following guidelines to get to a destination or goal in life.

​​First, why do I know what a cow trail is? - growing up my father owned Angus cattle and my brother, sister and I would roam across acres of land always following cow trails on adventures. (Clearly these were meant for us and obviously safe pathways to exploration, so why not.) As a kid I loved the freedom of these journeys and the expansive space, what seemed to go on for miles with no limitations. I’d get lost in the idea that I could be whatever I wanted and the day would go on forever. Through the beautiful Florida Oaks and Pines we would follow the paths winding through shaded woods and into open, sunny fields. The paths separated the tall grass parting the way and occasionally along the route we’d have to dodge gopher tortoise holes, bugs, snakes and cow patties. And little did I know that I’d come to this analogy and how much it truly correlates to life as an adult. (Even dodging patties makes a perfect metaphor for dodging life’s sh*t. 😉).

​What I’ve come to realize is that this pretty much represents life. Many times we select pathways that are well traveled to help guide us along a journey to a destination or end goal. Like in school, I know I have to take classes X,Y,Z  to get X degree, or in the corporate world, I have to work X,Y,Z  jobs to gain experience to climb the corporate ladder. Although well-planned, sometimes these road maps can be just a bit too narrow.
​(And even though cows are big, ​I’m surprise at just how narrow their paths are, seriously, I think they basically walk like models.) ​​​

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​Many times the path I’ve followed has been too restricting….whether that’s from expectations of perfection, societal pressures, forced scope or just doing what’s lined out. I’ve realized it limits my internal drives of creativity and exploration. As adults we seem to forget the things that ‘light our fire’ most.

​Internally I’ve struggled to fit in these narrow, defined routes. When I’d venture off, I’d try forcing myself back to what ‘works’, has been approved, socially accepted or what I’ve been taught. The path fits the expectations of others which can remove judgement from being seen as doing something ‘wrong’ or ‘different’, so it’s easy to want to go back. 

​BUT I’ve come to realize that it’s important to remember, we also have freedom. Freedom to widen our path, or roam in the open space, maybe just slightly off or waaay off the path. These can lead to experiences and opportunities all around us.  AND do this without self-judgement so you can enjoy the newly found shade, fresh pond or grassy field (get it, cow terms for opportunities!? #nailedit).
​It’s also important to remember the well run path is still available if we need or want to go back. It is what provided the foundation, confidence and support needed to succeed in trying new things in the first place.

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Here's to appreciating the blazed trails and also roaming in the open space!

​P.S. – Regardless, in life we sometimes have to deal with the cow patties. Here’s a recipe that can help: Cow Patties Recipe.
AND, if you want to see some real Florida Cracker cattle, check out the original artwork by my twinster: Keri Keene Art.