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Human frailty in a pandemic
Before this pandemic, I believed spiritual practice would save me from the pain of being human. But that's not what I discovered.
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The year that was
If I had to choose one word to sum up this year, it would be change. It’s been a huge year of transformation and growth. I like to do these reflective posts because they show me how far I have come, but they also keep me accountable moving forward. So, here’s my 2014… My son turned 18. My journey of motherhood is now, to a degree, finished. Of course I’m still a mother and always will be, but the child rearing years are over. My son is a mature, gentle and kind man. I’ve done well. My feelings about this transition are a melting pot of happiness, relief, sadness, pride, liberation, tiredness,…
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Shocked into writing
The world events of the past week or so have spurred me back into writing. For some months, domestic affairs had focused my attention in other ways, but it’s now time to come out of writer’s hibernation. Who can remain unaffected by the shooting down of the passenger aircraft MH17, carrying citizens of so many countries, and the rising intensity of unrest and casualties in Gaza? It may be that we have become somewhat desensitised with the conflict in Gaza, with the Israel / Palestine conflict being centuries old, but the number of lives recently being lost on a daily basis is both shocking and devastating. However, the shooting of…
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Why reflect on the past?
“The unreflected life is not worth living.” ~ Socrates I have come across this quote a number of times lately, causing me to reflect further on the statement itself. This quote of Socrates was first presented to me many years ago by an affirming mentor when I was going through significant change in my internal world. I was questioning myself in so many ways: my beliefs, my actions and my position and purpose in the world. At the time, the statement helped to validate the reflective turmoil I was experiencing, and over time I have come to appreciate the great wisdom of Socrates. What exactly is the wisdom embedded in…
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One day at a time
I just read the brilliant article Russell Brand: my life without drugs and, in memory of the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, I feel inspired to share my story. “Drugs and alcohol are not my problem, reality is my problem, drugs and alcohol are my solution,” Brand writes. This is also my truth. I have not picked up a drink, one day at a time, since 3 June 2007. I am aware of the risks in telling my story. I may be judged, criticised or pitied. I am not a celebrity with a host of fans who adore me regardless. I have chosen to share my story in the hope that it…
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What’s your theme for 2014?
I love Twitter. I get so many ideas, insights and inspiration from the people I follow. I met @trevoryoung back in 2008 and he has since become both a mentor and a friend. Trevor posted his three words for the year, and a theme, over on his PR Warrior blog this week. I’m poaching the idea to share here. My theme for the year is: Learning I’m undertaking a postgraduate course this year. It’s a six-month Diploma in Digital Marketing starting in March. It took seven years to complete my degree and it’s taken me this long – nine years – to consider doing formal study again! I’ve completed short courses over the years,…
