At the end of each year I take some time to write a reflection of the year behind me and I can honestly say that each time is a revelation.
Am I healthy? Not as healthy as I’d like. Have I spent more of 2017 in hospitals than I’d have liked? Yes. Have I had stresses that have completely blindsided me? Yes. Have I lost people I thought were friends? Yes. Have I also said goodbye to some amazing people who departed this year? Yes. Like any year, it’s been full of ups and downs and more than a few surprises.
Christmas is the perfect opportunity to reflect on our choices. That’s the reason Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is such a memorable tale that has been retold oh so many ways; the story shares a powerful message. Each ghost of past, present and future reminds us of the power of the time and perspective to change the way we see the world around us.
The number of people forced into homelessness is expected to more than double to half a million by 2041 unless the government takes immediate action, a homelessness charity has warned.
It’s not just us, the US population has risen for the first time in years, and last week it was reported that Germany’s homelessness is on the rise.
Thinking about, talking about and working on the homelessness issues helps me to keep things in perspective. On my way home from a meeting this week I saw a homeless woman and talking to her in the freezing cold bought a tear to my eye. As much as I may moan about the rising cost of heating and water, I was on my way home to a warm home. The place I consider my sanctuary; where I work, play, raise kids and curl up with the dogs. So, for everything I may have lost this year, I am so blessed to be able to count my many blessings, growth, change and not just for me but for those I love.
And that’s the balance between loss and gain that forms a positive mindset going into a New Year.
Over the years I’ve learned the hard way how to trust myself more, to act on my beliefs and understandings, to allow myself to try new things based on my journey and how to listen. How to listen to my circle, to my heart, body and spirit.
Looking over my articles I can see the political frustrations I’ve had in 2017; from the cuts in Domestic Abuse refuges to police failings and I haven’t been shy about speaking out. There’s also been some amazing highs with the Education Secretary setting out plans for relationships education in primary schools and relationships and sex education in secondary schools. This was a big one as it was a major success in the hard work of me and the team at S.W.I.M in trying to educate our children about healthy relationships.
Life is too short. That’s why I put me on my own calendar and weigh out my Year because even in my worst years there has been lots to be thankful for. I take time out, so that my life has balance. Taking responsibility for my happiness begins with me.
If you haven’t already, take a moment to mindfully implement a large dose of balance.
Tomorrow is not promised, but leading a life of balance in mind, body and soul is within your reach.
Be balanced, be whole, be you… and shine bright.