The umbrella has been around for a long time, so long that we don’t even think about it anymore. It’s original purpose was to protect people from the sun, not the rain. It gained tremendous popularity in France in the 17th century, where it was known as the parasol (literally protection from the sun) and considered a far more feminine accessory. The British originally resisted the umbrella because it was a “French thing.”

Think about that—England, where it is notorious for rainy and inclement weather, resisted the very thing that could protect them from this regular nuisance. Talking about cutting off your nose to spite your face! Change is hard, for sure, but if the change is going to be helpful in so many ways, then maybe resistance is not our best approach. It’s good to note, eventually not only did the British women adopt this important accessory, but so did the men.

You and I both use an umbrella, so how is this story relevant to us? Resistance is always present in our lives. We are always resisting something—and it’s usually because we are afraid. The British were more afraid of adopting something that was not within their cultural norm, then they were of getting wet. It sounds so silly, right? What are you resisting in your life right that could make it better? Resistance is a negative force on us and prevents us from the goodness that awaits. Are you resisting something at work, with your health, help, a new venture, others, love, etc. Just like the umbrella, we often resist those things that are actually good for us. I hope today you will be brave, stop resisting, and allow the goodness in.

With Gratitude,

Beth Fitzgerald

P.S. “What you resist persists.” ~ Carl Jung