The Gift Hidden Inside Frustration - Independent Thinking

With it being Father’s Day recently passing, I’ve found myself thinking about my dad and how our relationship has changed over the years.

Growing up, I thought he was incredibly overbearing.

He’s a strong character. A fellow Scorpio too, which meant there were more than a few clashes over the years.

We both had strong opinions.

Neither of us were particularly interested in backing down.

I wasn’t always the easiest child to deal with. I always stood my ground.

Perhaps a little rebellious.

Then again, aren’t some of the most interesting people? 😝

One phrase I heard repeatedly growing up was:

“Think, Rebecca. THINK.”

At the time, it drove me absolutely mad.

Every discussion became a challenge.

Every opinion was questioned.

Every conclusion had to be examined from another angle.

I often wondered why he couldn’t just let things go.

Why everything had to be debated.

Why he always seemed determined to make me work harder for my answers.

But age has a funny way of changing your perspective.

Looking back now, I realise he wasn’t trying to make life difficult for me.

He was teaching me how to think for myself and sharpen my mind.

Not what to think. How to think.

There’s a difference.

For years I saw that gift as a curse.

I was a chronic overthinker.

My mind never seemed to switch off. Exhausting at times.

But as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to appreciate it differently.

Because once I learned how to channel that thinking into curiosity, creativity, self-awareness and understanding rather than worry, it became one of my greatest strengths.

It shaped how I write.

How I learn.

How I understand people.

How I navigate the world.

Many experiences have influenced who I am, but the foundation of that mindset started with my father.

Even today, his determination, resilience and strength of mind continue to inspire me.

The older I get, the more I realise that the greatest gifts we receive are rarely things.

They aren’t wrapped in boxes or bought.

And they can never be taken away.

Sometimes the greatest gift someone gives you is simply teaching you how to see the world differently.

And for that, I’ll always be grateful ❤️

Curiosity has taken me to some fascinating places in life.

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