I’ve been thinking about the word “fire”. The definition of fire is: a phenomenon of combustion, manifested in light, flame and heat. The slang definition is something that is exciting, outstanding or gaining popularity quickly. Metaphorically, fire is used to express several of our most basic concepts: life and death, power and the lack of control, and several of our more intense and active emotions.
I have decided, I am fire. I’ve laughed about being “sparkle, pixie dust, glitter, A LOT” and I have been trying to see myself as others do and the word fire keeps popping in my brain. Looking at these definitions I see myself in each one. LIGHT, EXCITING, POWER AND LACK OF CONTROL, INTENSE EMOTIONS.
I understand some people like to stand close to the flame. It warms them. It represents light for them. Some are afraid to stand too close to the fire as the flame will burn. It can mesmerize and draw one in and before one knows it, they have fallen and burned. Playing with fire can be exciting and fun for a while. Eventually, it will need to be stoked or it will burn itself out. Fire can only do what it is supposed to do when fed the appropriate things. I feel as if this is very apropos when looking at myself and my life. I am fire.
The way the flames flicker haphazardly licking the air in no semblance of order. Yet, it is doing what it is supposed to do. It is acting the way it was designed by The Creator. The fireworks that happen when the chef sprinkles salt on the flames could be seen as a perfect pairing for excitement. Yet, salt on its own is sharp. It is a seasoning and not a bad thing to the fire. It is just something that doesn’t last. I am fire.
Many people are afraid of fire. The damage fire can leave behind is undeniable. It is evident when a fire has swept through. It leaves its mark. One knows without a doubt fire has been there. The smolder, the ash, the smell, all tell tale signs. A fire must be totally extinguished or a smoldering flame can come back to life when least expected. Once it is totally extinguished it can no longer give warmth, give light, give excitement. One must decide if they will need that fire before killing it and sometimes it is quenched just as it is realized doing so was a mistake. I am fire.
A campfire can be soothing to those around. It can represent life. I can also represent death. Fire is an oxymoron. It can cause an infatuation. An arsonist can be obsessed with it. There is a zest to be near it. An intenseness that one can feel when lost in it. Excitement that is indescribable can be felt from within. Bonfires are often used during parties for this reason. I am fire.
Fire can be good or bad depending on how it is used. Using it in a malicious way can have a far reaching consequence. Yet, using it in a responsible way can change your world. If used appropriately one can reap numerous rewards. It has to be respected. It has to be fed. It has to be appreciated for what it is. It can be intense but worth the intensity. It can be powerful when left alone or when harnessed. I AM FIRE!
