Leaping Frog

I am sure everyone has heard the story of the boiling frog. That if you put a frog in boiling water the frog will immediately jump out. But if you put a frog in warm water and slowly turn up the heat, the frog will boil in the water without noticing the temperature change.

I do not know if this is actually true. I have never, and will never, boil a frog. But what I do know is I was that frog and yet I did jump out as the heat increased. I did not get out undamaged but I did get out – and I can heal. So here is Learning #2.

I AM A LEAPING FROG. BE A LEAPING FROG.

In all relationships there are temperature changes. They usually start out warm and comfortable. Everyone is on their best behaviour. Sometimes things cool down and the relationship ends quietly. Sometimes things heat up and the relationship blissfully endures. But sometime things overheat and someone ends up hurt. When this happens, the relationship can become abusive – like a boiling pot of water. The trick is to get out before irreparable damage is done. I say irreparable because there will always be some damage from an abusive relationship.

Just remember, if you can feel that the water is getting too hot there is still time to jump out. No one can tell you when it is time to jump. Only you know when it is time. But know that you have the right to jump. No permission or explanation required. You do not owe it to anyone to continue to boil. Not your partner. Not your parents. Not even your children. Nobody.

BE A LEAPING FROG.