Wednesday 26 December 2012

Simple joys of life

Just had an amazing Christmas with the family. Way too much to eat, drink, lovely pressies to open (and give) and lots of laughing. One of the highlights was definitely seeing and hearing my 6 year old nephew go crazy showing me how to dance to "Gangnam Style" lol.  It was a great experience being in such a happy environment, but I do realise and appreciate that not everyone can say the same.  

Many people are alone at this time of year, homeless, broke, feel depressed or are sick in hospital.  With this, I extend peace and warm thoughts to anyone that feels down on their luck because of the festive season bringing about sad memories of what they do not have.  I also take my hat off to charities and selfless volunteers who work tirelessly throughout the crimbo period to help make a difference to those in need.  A beautiful quote from Oliver Twist (Charles Dickens) falls into place here: “It is because I think so much of warm and sensitive hearts, that I would spare them from being wounded.” 

It may sound sentimental, but this time of year makes me feel grateful for the simple things I often take for granted throughout the year and think its high time others, especially those who are caught up in their status and getting to the top at any cost, pause for thought and realise just how lucky they are to be where they are today.   

So, rather than focusing on what's not there, the next time I raise a glass, dance or eat a meal, I'll be giving thanks and will remain grateful for all that I have including the simple joys of life.  

Festive Shimmies,

Nic 

Saturday 15 December 2012

Festive Thoughts


Where has the year gone?  It’s that time again when most people are gearing up for the Christmas rush and reflecting on the ups and downs of 2012.  Whilst this time of year can bring in a sense of completion, for some it also brings in renewed hope, by making fresh plans for the New Year ahead.  

In this photo I’m feeling mesmerised and inspired, as I get ready to dance and watch another dancer's theatre performance.  With this, I now ponder deep in thought as to what the year ahead may bring to me and start to set myself goals to achieve. For me, it’s been a good year, and although its been challenging at times, there's been a lot of light bulb moments, and a strong sense of feeling that I need to do even more things to enjoy myself, like my dancing, creative writing and yoga in 2013. 

A few valuable lessons learnt from this year, are that no matter what happens, if any situation is approached with integrity, optimism and an open mind, the right result will come of it.  Either way, karma and a person’s own conscience bites if unjust has been done.  If I set my sights on something that’s worth having, if it’s truly meant to be and the effort is put in, it will come without any struggle, and if it doesn’t, its time to move on and reframe those goals, because life will still go on. 

Observing the children at my primary school helps to put things into perspective for me. Kids are naturally playful and life to them is filled with innocence and wonder.  You know when a child is sad because they tend to be upfront about it. When a child is happy its like all of their Christmases have come at once :)  As adults, we often feel the need to hold back and be responsible with our actions.  However, by just letting go, having fun like kids every now and then and learning to be upfront with our feelings, can be SO liberating!!! This, I plan to do more of right now, next year and beyond.

As I continue to be mesmerised and absorbed by my own passions, friends, family and all the special moments I’ve been lucky enough to experience this year, I have every faith in Christmas and the New Year, 2013, shaping up to be the best yet!

Happy shimmies and enjoy the festive season :)))

Nic