The recent passing of Nelson Mandela has inspired many eulogies which will hopefully continue to inspire many others into positive and compassionate action all around the world. We are continually bombarded by famous quotes imploring us to do more and do better, and I unashamedly share the ones that most appeal to me, because as they inspire me, I hope they will have a similar effect on someone else.

There are many people doing great things in the world but I think we need remember that it’s not only the Mandelas and Mother Theresas of this world that make a difference. Their impact is huge and should be applauded and remembered, but the possibility to do great and beautiful things lies within all of us.

Ghandi summed it up well - ‘Be the change you want to see in the world’

Let’s start by making something better in our own little corner of the world and see how much of a difference we can make.

Again my focus has wavered over the past few months, and I’ve arrived at the end of the year a little frustrated. No blog since March, little tangible progress towards my ever present but often elusive dreams and, for a number of reasons, I returned at least partly, to my pre-vegetarian eating habits.

There are many positives to have come out of all this however.

I’ve learned more about my body, through the cleanliness and vigour I felt whilst not eating meat or processed food, and the confirmation that it was a good idea when lethargy and metabolic stress accompanied the return of my old diet.

I’ve focussed a lot on developing myself physically during the last few years, and have realised that I need to further develop my mind too. I began to practice Reiki, on myself mostly, which has begun another learning process, the direction and scale of which I’m not yet sure of, but I’m enjoying it so far.

  I have also remembered something I’ve always known. I care deeply about this planet and the natural world (of which humans are a part). I know that I’m not doing enough to make it a better place. There is much work to be done, and many things that I can do. It’s time I did more of them.

I’ve learned that I need to travel more, and travel more slowly.

So, not just because it’s nearly a new year, but because life is short and should be amazing, I’m moving forward with renewed enthusiasm for the things that are important to me (and the rest of the world). No more meat, more learning about food, climate, nature and me, and more appropriate action. Living consciously.
More creativity and writing… in case there’s someone out there who wants to hear about it.

 
I’ll leave you with a short poem by H.C. Andersen, sent to me by a good friend, from which I have found new inspiration

To move, to breathe, to fly, to float

To gain all while you give,

To roam the roads of lands remote,

To travel is to live