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Shit. 

Today’s word of the day happened to be “shit.” It may sound humorous, as we’re all human, and sometimes we just can’t answer the phone because, well, nature called first. There’s a certain need for privacy when it comes to certain tasks, and bowel movements fall into that category. We don’t have much say in the matter; when you’ve got to go, you’ve got to go. Holding it in isn’t advisable, and rushing someone in the middle of it certainly isn’t polite.

After that initial presentation, the sentiment stuck, and my friends and I found ourselves using phrases like “do you need to take a shit (break)” or “I need a shit (moment).” These icebreaker truths are sometimes necessary to break free from the pressures and unnecessary stress of absolute thinking. We often impose this weight on ourselves by thinking we always have to do everything—always answer the phone, respond to a text, be polite, be correct. But hey, we’re human, and being messy is part of the deal. Besides, taking a shit is a natural part of life. Just try to keep your shit together – for good health, well-being and hygene.

When I got home, I decided to do some light research and reading, and, of course, I looked up the definition of “shit” on Google, the results included the usual meanings, feces, expel feces, or to tease someone. I propose we add another definition: “shit” is a reason to pause, to contemplate the true necessity of a moment and of life. After all, we all need to take a moment for ourselves, and we all need to shit. These are two checkboxes we can mark off at the same time.

And, while I was researching I discovered the following three things:

Even some plants do it. According to Popular Science, plants have their own ways of letting go of things they don’t need, similar to how humans excrete waste. In an article titled “Do Plants Poop? And other important questions,” the author explains it’s not exactly like the mammal version of pooping, but yes, plants have their version of getting rid of excess stuff they don’t need. So, yes, in a way, even plants engage in a bit of a “natural reflection.”

AND, our urine is more valuable than we give it credit for. According to Popular Mechanics, human urine could replace about a quarter of today’s chemical fertilizers. There are already pilot projects in various countries turning urine into nutrient-rich water for agricultural use.

Lastly, there’s a waste-to-food system for astronauts that not only treats waste but also generates food in a separate process. NBC reported on this intriguing topic in an article titled “How recycled astronaut poop might sustain a mission to Mars.” I find that fascinating! We truly live in a ever-evolving world with limitless potential for transformation.

Today’s word is symbolic of a theme for me today, which is recognizing the importance of taking a pause, acknowledging our natural needs, and embracing moments for ourselves without unnecessary societal pressures.