A Scoop of Insight: What an Ice Cream Run Taught Me About Boundaries

One warm summer night I went to our town’s local creamery for some ice cream and was delighted that I had made it a couple of minutes before they closed! The person behind me was the last one in line, as they promptly close at 8pm indicated on their sign. While I was waiting for my ice cream at the pick up window, I was able to watch as the clock turned 8:00pm, the person closed the ordering window and drew the blinds that said they were closed. Not more than 30 seconds later did a couple arrive looking to get some ice cream and were surprised that it was closed even though it was just around 8:01pm. 

Watching this transpire made me think of boundaries. The person behind the counter could have made an exception for this couple, but then where do they draw the line? What if someone else came up after them, does that person become the exception too? How many times in our life are we making little exceptions to our boundaries here and there? What does this cost us? How does it show up within me? How does it affect me outwardly? 

What boundaries do I have in my life that help me protect myself? 

Do I…

protect my time?

protect my energy?

protect my essence? 

When my boundary lines waver how will I remind myself to redraw them? Hopefully not when it’s too late and I have become depleted. All we can do is give ourselves the grace and courage to restart over and over again. Seeking support from a trusted friend is usually my go to strategy for accountability, support, and connection! 

Be well 💜