Green Toes

Earlier in the week, I shared that I got a manicure and pedicure with my sister—good times! What I did not share is that I painted my toes green with butterflies on the big toes. It is the simple things in life that raise my Joy Factor!
I do have to admit, there was a process to choosing this beautiful color. There is this little mental checklist I went through:
Do I like the color? Will it clash with or match with the clothes/shoes I wear? Does it make me happy? What will others think of my green toes?
 It is this last question that always throws me for a loop.

 Why do I care what other people think about the color I put on my toenails?  It is nail polish, it is removable. I have a tattoo, pierced nose and pierced belly button-why should green tootsies be a big deal?
That little nagging thought that others may not “approve” of me gets in the way of my Joy Factor being its best. The beautiful thing is that my recovery time is so much shorter these days when that thought comes up;  I can step back into making a choice from what brings me joy vs. what I thing will bring others joy.
The funny thing is that when it brings me joy, it usually brings others joy as well.  I have gotten so many compliments on my fun toes. I can also sense that it is not everyone’s favorite color – so be it.

Here is what I make up as true, as I give myself permission to express myself authentically with my emerald toes, it gives other people the go-ahead to have fun with their authentic expression as well. And here is what I know is true, when I look at my toes, I am happy and when I am happy, magic happens!
What is your “green toe” experience? Please tell, inquiring minds want to know.