She used to have high standards. Used to touch the pad of her index finger to her eyes to place her contact lenses in. Right eye then left. Used to hover the purple plastic hair dryer over her eye lash curler for a few seconds so her lashes would remember to stay curled. Used to draw a black line on her lower lashes not the top because her eyes were sensitive like that. Used to only wear high heels. She still loves the sound of heels, precise and purposeful, clicking in the lobbies of restaurants or hallways of a school. She remembered when she was in her classroom teaching how she would tuck her heels under her desk ready to walk the hallway. She used to wear clothes that smothered her. Zippers, denim, layers.
Now she will glimpse down at her floral cotton shirt, her flowy pants, her lime green and red pajamas, and it is okay. She will open the stroller with a twist of two wrists, look down at her barely arched tennis shoes that are sensible, maybe too sensible, and reflect on her low standards that only seem to get lower. But the sky, oh the sky, is gold and blue and perfect. Who can compete with the sky?
He is the One Who created seven heavens, one above the other. You will never see any imperfection in the creation of the Most Compassionate. So look again: do you see any flaws? – Quran 67:3
Doodling Through Life 
This is such a beautifully reflective piece, capturing the evolution of a person’s standards and priorities over time. It’s a poignant reminder of how life’s changes can lead us to appreciate simplicity and the beauty of the world around us.
The description of her past routines and preferences paints a vivid picture of a different era in her life. Yet, as she embraces comfort and practicality, there’s a sense of contentment in her new choices. The contrast between her old and current standards is striking and thought-provoking.
The way you connect her changing standards with the awe-inspiring beauty of the sky is truly poetic. It reminds us that, in the grand scheme of things, the simple joys and natural wonders often outshine the expectations we place on ourselves.
Thank you for sharing this introspective moment with us. It’s a lovely reminder to appreciate the ever-changing journey of life. 🌟✨
aw thank you so much for your beautiful insights and commentary! I somehow missed your comment! And yes, the sky is so beautiful and puts us in our place :). And I love comfort these days!