Apatite
You’d be forgiven for thinking this mineral was named for the word “appetite,” since the two words are pronounced the same way. It wasn’t, and yet it’s a strangely fitting coincidence, since it’s directly owing to apatite that we are so well able to feed our appetites. That’s because this group of minerals is mined for its phosphate, which, as the world’s main source of fertilizer, is how we’ve grown such a huge abundance of grains, vegetables, and fruit. Not only that, but apatite is the very mineral our bones and teeth are made of, all the better to hunt, gather, and eat with. That said, while phosphorous has done much to rid the world of hunger, some believe its overuse is damaging our soil and polluting our water. When you consider that apatite also holds a spot smack in the middle of the Mohs Hardness Scale, its message seems clear: When it comes to feeding our appetites, the middle road is best. It’s good to keep ourselves nourished, healthy, and strong, but too much isn’t just bad for us, it’s bad for the planet too.
The Bottom Line
MODERATION
“Not too little, not too much, but only just enough.”
One Or More Of These Messages Are For You
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- Try to make sure you have a good balance of energy you’re taking in versus what you’re putting out.
- If overindulgence is your default mode, you could be headed toward illness and depletion.
- The opposite can be just as damaging, so if you tend to be overly severe or spartan, make sure you’re giving your body plenty of nourishment.
- Your mind and soul can suffer from too much consumption too. If all you’re doing all day is consuming media, you’re going to end up miserable.
- The opposite of consuming is creating and contributing, and most of us could stand to do more of both.
- On the other hand, too much creating and contributing risks burnout, so know when to pull back.
- Balance periods of high productivity with periods of replenishment.
- If there’s something in your life you want to grow, feed it!
- Everything in moderation…, including moderation.
