When Marring Becomes Patina

 This stool sits outside the kitchen door

 and holds a container that gathers things

 for the recycling bin.

It needed a bit of sponging off today.

As I sponged things off I noted 

the amazing collection of spatters and splotches

 that make up this "painted" stool.

It is a great little stool that is also a step ladder 

and the extension folds up 

so that it takes up less room. 

It was from my husband, John's, growing up home.

A friend commented that it is a great little stool

 and wondered what color I was going to paint it.

I quietly stated that I loved it just the way it was-

spattered, multi-colored and messy.

'You just can't get a patina like that if you tried."

I know she thought I was a bit off with my answer.

But, you see, that is exactly what fits 

into my life as a wonderful reminder.

The tattered, worn layers show the STORY.
There is marring on all of us.
The hurts, failings, short-comings,
and disappointments of life.
It is a wonderful thing
 to see authentic layers
 in a journey. 
When we share the learnings along the way.
This little stool is just the reminder 
I need as I walk in and out of our home.
 Be real and celebrate the dents and dings-
because they really do bring the joy of a 
rich Patina- that you just can't fake.