Being like an old shoe

By Ellen Shuck

Why would someone want to be like an old shoe? It sounds like a ridiculous question, doesn't it? I know many people who are like old shoes, and I love them. As I researched the subject of shoes, in general, I found it was a fascinating topic. I asked myself just what was an old shoe like, what does it look like, symbolize and what does it have to offer. What can we learn from the comparison between people and an old shoe?

Merriam-Webster's Dictionary describes an old shoe as characterized by familiarity or freedom from restraint: comfortable, unpretentious.

I visualize an old shoe as one that is soft and laid back, perhaps showing an amount of wear and tear. Even though you toss it in the corner when the day's over, it's there when you want to retrieve it. It may be misshapen and caved-in on the back where one pulls the shoe on. Nevertheless, it's always welcoming. Your feet feel good when the shoe's on. It's your favorite pair because it's broken in. The shoe doesn't pinch your foot and you can go far in that shoe. There may even be a hole somewhere, yet it is -- always there -- smiling up at you and ready to go. Shoes exhibit a down to earth feeling of stability. You seldom dare leave without them. People often lose their shoes. You're frantic until you find them. They offer a cushion against the elements and a shield from what you may encounter.

Shoes can be a sign of power and authority because you own them and you can use them for weaponry if you desire. They can be a symbol of attainment in particular contexts such as military units.

Shoes can also be a sign of humbleness and respect. Some religions require you put off your shoes when entering a temple respecting the divine.

Shoes play a part in Christian Scripture too. Within the scenario of the burning bush Exodus 3:1-5 NIV, God addresses Moses, concerning his shoes. "Do not come any closer," God said. "Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy grounds."

People perceive their shoes as a form of protection. Shoes that are old and worn can be a reminder of hardship and pain. Yes, old shoes represent memories, feelings and comfort.

To say someone is just like an old shoe is a great compliment to them. Have you known anyone who was comfortable to be around, always the same and always welcoming, and available when you needed them?

I think of one man, in particular, when I attempt to think of someone who's like an old comfortable shoe. When I first made his acquaintance, the person was anything but flashy and pretentious, although he was vigorous and interesting. The person was e even-tempered and always there. He wasn't excessively interested in being known by the brand of clothes he wore or in keeping up with the Joneses. This male was persistent in attaining what he set out to achieve and generous to a fault, yet frugal. He is still like my favorite pair of shoes -- comfortable, always there, trustworthy and, yes, possibly reclining in the corner for a while, sometimes -- but he understands. I'm taken care of by this person who wears so well. It's not what's on the outside of him, that endures, but the stability and love within, that keeps him as the comfortable shoe that I hope to always, have in MY corner. This man is my husband, Don.

Those who endure, bend when needed and exude no pretense are like a large shade-bearing tree. A tree that exhibits calm, love, and a welcoming atmosphere. Peace radiates from all his/her branches.

When you cast away your old shoes, try to recall the qualities that attracts you to them. We may all benefit from their symbolism and become like an old shoe, too.