Not sure what got me thinking about eggs. It could be the merry chirping of the robins out my window at 6:00 a.m. each morning. Maybe it’s the repetitive statement from our American neighbors that the price of eggs has skyrocketed. Most likely it’s the Easter treats piled high on store shelves and my favourite, Cadbury Mini Eggs!
As I prepared a potato salad for a family dinner last weekend, I began to ponder the similarities between eggs and our human brains as I peeled and sliced them into the salad. There is an outer hard shell, a thin membrane, and the fluid interior of yolk and white. Of course, I exercised proper etiquette and didn’t raise the discussion with my dinner guests as they may very well have lost their appetites!
Being the curious person I am though; I thought I’d investigate the similarities between eggs and brains. I discovered I am not alone – this has in fact been the basis for a scientific study.
Dr. Qianhong Wu, a professor at Villanova University Pennsylvania, U.S.A., has developed an interesting technique for studying concussions by observing eggs. As you may be aware, concussion can occur from impact onto the surface of the skull or by the rotating motion within the skull as the brain collides against it. Dr. Wu and his team were able to simulate an outer hard container, empty the fluid portion of the egg into that and proceed to put it into a spinning motion. They observed the shape of the yolk going from a round ball to a flattened disc. They believe this same motion is what alters the brain during a concussion incident resulting in the shearing and tearing of nerve fibers (axons), damaging brain function, impacting cognitive, motor and sensory functions.
But let’s take a more philosophical approach. Comparing life to an egg can be a powerful metaphor, highlighting themes of potential, transformation and the fragility of life. Some of us are “cracked up”, just like an egg. It wasn’t our fault…The eggs weren’t transported properly; they weren’t given the kind of protection and care they required. Those “hard knocks” made the egg develop small cracks… that might one day break it apart into shell and yolk. That day feels very close when pressures mount!
An interesting quote I came across recently: “If an egg is broken by outside force, life ends. If broken by inside force, life begins.” Wise words from Jim Kwik, an American brain coach, podcaster, writer, and entrepreneur. It’s a reminder to me that even though I have suffered those hard knocks from the outside, the real me is that stronger inner force determined to break out and explore my full potential!
I love walking through my neighborhood at this time of year, observing birds as they build their nests. I’m always in awe of the diligent care given by the guardian; a constant, protective vigil over this nascent stage of life. Will I guard the hopes and dreams that are incubating in my own life? A few residual cracks are no reason to throw away your plans! I notice the shrubs along the sidewalk. The buds are starting to burst open, again, by an inner force of life that cannot be contained!
I have some goals and dreams that I want to see come to fruition. It’s so easy to look at the “disability shell” that surrounds my life and give up before I’ve started. Nature teaches us a very valuable lesson. As a chick goes through the process of breaking through the shell, it strengthens the muscles. This process builds endurance as the chick persists in its efforts.
Get it? It might be tough going to walk out your goals but think of the strength you’re gaining! So, this Easter season as you decorate or hide eggs, find that inner force that will have you breaking out, spreading your wings and soaring to new heights!
Resource:
Jim Kiwk sustained a traumatic brain injury as a child. He is a published author and effective brain coach and helps individuals maximize their brain power. You can follow him on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@JimKwik.
