Recently a picture of a toad that is indigenous to Northwest Africa, the Berber toad, or Sclerophrys mauritanica, struck me with the bold colors and beautiful, wart-covered skin. It got me thinking a lot about toads the past couple of weeks, and all of the things I remember hearing about them when I was young. There were the warnings about not touching them because of the infamous warts that would surely be transferred to the one brave enough to poke and prod; or the stories which promised that if anyone licked any toad, they would start hallucinating. Unforgettable was the lore or the famous courage it took a young maiden to kiss a disgusting toad in order to turn him back into a noble prince. Something interesting to ponder. All surrounding stories and tidbits surrounding toads, most of which had no shred of truth, were fun to think about. Yet, I think there is another story about toads which could be had.
We have a tendency to shy away from things that appear "slimy" or "wart-laden" and we create ideas, false realities, to reinforce our disdain for things that are different or "ugly." Often, we see ourselves as falling into the "toad" category, wondering if we are destined for a life of being perceived as untouchable, or "poisonous" based on some of the decisions we've made, or due to a less than hearty sense of self. I see in the warty toad something noble, infused with a quiet dignity, not caring about the stories, fables, fears and perceptions of those around him.
This week, I decided to paint a toad or a person that, by many outside indicators, would fall into the less-valued, less-proper, or less-lovable classification. Yet, I love him dearly for his example of dedication, of continued effort, despite challenging setbacks. I've watched the way society feels the need to chasten those who have made similar choices that he has. We lack humanity and understanding. To me, he has ever been kind and supportive when I see myself as a "toad." This act is noble to me because of how easy it would have been to be focused on himself with his particular set of problems. Thank goodness there are those around us that are able to look outside of themselves, even when there appear to be every reason to be suffocating in self-concern.
Here is some good counsel, if we are feeling the urge to retreat inwards because of our many faults or struggles:
"This year, mend a quarrel. Seek out a forgotten friend. Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust. Write a letter. Give a soft answer. Encourage youth. Manifest your loyalty in word and deed. Keep a promise. Forgo a grudge. Forgive an enemy. Apologize. Try to understand. Examine your demands on others. Think first of someone else. Be kind. Be gentle. Laugh a little more. Express your gratitude. Welcome a stranger. Gladden the heart of a child. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth. Speak your love and then speak it again." --Howard W. Hunter
By doing these things, you may place the affection on a "toad" that helps them realize that they are kingly or queenly. It may also help you realize that your ability to affect others for good brings out the nobility in yourself.
