During
those adolescent years, they were a sign of beauty I could honestly
claim when my hair, my face and my body were not as I wished. My nails were also a creative outlet as I could use them as accessories, color coordinating with my makeup and clothes. I embraced a rainbow of possibilities. I loved rotating 10 or more shades preferring a bold and attention getting palate. I even hand modeled for a brief period.
As college and searching for my path in life challenged me, I saw my nails as a symbol of how I wished the world would see me: beautiful, strong and unique. When I became a mom, maintaining my nails became a luxury of my previous life that was just too difficult to maintain. My nails immediately showed if they were not given consistent, proper care. They peeled, chipped, and broke. I gave in to the message they sent me. With the limited investment I could make as a new mother, I needed to settle for short, natural nails. I
also felt deep down perhaps manicures were now a bit of a frivolous use
of energy when there were so many important obligations calling to me
However, as my firstborn grew into a more independent toddler, I again found the time as well as the joy of length and polish. My approach was more practical at this stage; I stuck with muted colors where chips would not easily show. I also was okay with short and natural if they were healthy. I no longer wanted to garner attention. But rather, I was content to just enjoy their beauty -- more appreciated because of the hiatus.
Over two more kids and lots of health and work challenges, I noticed a pattern. If my life was well managed, my nails were long, healthy and meticulously polished. When I took on too much, was in transition, or in the eye of storm of three kids and two careers, my nails became ragged and broken; a reflection of where I was.
I maintain them now but don’t take it too seriously. I garden, play piano and do many things that involve using my fingers as tools. However, when I look down at my hands, I see instruments that have played many melodies in my life. They still gives me much satisfaction. I have learned I let the decorative piece go sometimes if my schedule gets out of control, keeping them healthy is always a priority. Now it is for different reasons. I have nothing to prove to the world. But I do know I need to take care of myself to be a success at home or at work; and my fingers let me know how well I am doing.
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