Why the Starfish?
My “WHY”
During the course of our lives, too many times we get the terrible news of friends/colleagues that suffer sudden heart attacks and those that are battling chronic disease. This news usually comes suddenly and unexpected. At these times, I am always left wondering, could that have been prevented? Did that have to happen?
Although we don’t ultimately control how much time we have here on earth, we can certainly make a point to enjoy it as best we can.
I am not a medical doctor and certainly don’t have all the answers, but the path to becoming a NBC-HWC, earning Nutrition Science and Functional Nutrition Training certificates has opened my eyes to scientific and evidence based information that proves we have more control over our personal health outcomes than you might think.
Our health and wellbeing is not solely dependent on our genes alone. We can combat chronic disease with lifestyle choices, the foods we consume, the environments we are in and activities we choose.
Like the symbolism of the starfish; humans are resilient, adaptable, diverse, and even interconnected.
As in the starfish story, if my information, support, or simple inspiration makes a difference for just one person. That’s enough!
That’s enough, because there is something called a ripple effect, and this is the start of one of mine.
The Starfish Story
Originated from an excerpt of Loren Eiseley’s 16 page essay of the same title, published in 1969 in The Unexpected Universe, according to Wikipedia.
The parable has been adapted for many motivational speakers over the years, and it goes like this:
“Once, on ancient Earth, there was a human boy walking along a beach. There had just been a storm, and starfish had been scattered along the sands. The boy knew the fish would die, so he began to fling the fish to the sea. But every time he threw a starfish, another would wash ashore. "An old Earth man happened along and saw what the child was doing. He called out, 'Boy, what are you doing?' " 'Saving the starfish!' replied the boy. " 'But your attempts are useless, child! Every time you save one, another one returns, often the same one! You can't save them all, so why bother trying? Why does it matter, anyway?' called the old man. "The boy thought about this for a while, a starfish in his hand; he answered, "Well, it matters to this one." And then he flung the starfish into the welcoming sea.”
― Loren Eiseley, The Star Thrower
Starfish Symbolism
Resilience and Regeneration: Known for their ability to regenerate lost limbs. A symbol of recovery, healing and renewal.
Guidance and Direction: A star for navigating and trusting our inner compass.
Transformation and Adaptability: Be flexible and adaptable to life’s ever changing environments and uncertainty.
Mystery and Wonder: The beauty and diversity that surrounds us. Reminds us to marvel at the wonders around us and continue to be curious and explore.
Spirituality and Connection: Often seen as a symbol of divine love and connection. Its five arms can represent the five elements—earth, air, fire, water, and spirit—highlighting the interconnectedness of all things.
Inspiration and Hope: Like the starfish, we have the power to make a positive impact and to inspire others with our resilience, adaptability, and inner light.
Source: Palos Verdes Pulse. (n.d.). Resilience and regeneration: Lessons from the enchanted starfish. Retrieved June 19, 2025, from https://www.palosverdespulse.com/blog/enchantedstarfish