Lemon Sorbet inbetween a three course meal

To say that this week (an this month) has been a tough one is like saying that flying a helicopter is easy after reading a 'how- to' pamphlet. I have had some difficult decisions to make, some unsettling times to deal with and some long hours to put in.

As those who know me will understand, I am a 'Nester'. I like to make a nest for myself/ my family/ my friends. I like comfort and my things around me. My desk at work is no different. While the agency itself is bright and vibrant and has a style of it's own, I still find the need to personalize my space- people must know that when they step up to my desk that they are here- with me- in all my glory! (Lovely).

So, every time my mind wanders while thinking of my next task, or while trying to find a solution to one of the many problems of my day, I look to my left and find my direction. In a day full of admin, problems, stress and utter chaos- I can always find a sentence that grounds me and helps me to believe in going forward. It's like that simple spoon of lemon sorbet in between a rich three course meal of roast beef and gravy. It's like a glass of ice cold water after a strong cup of coffee. It's clarity of purpose. Clarity of mind. Clarity of Soul and clarity of self.

It's a reminder to love, a reminder to be true to yourself and a reminder to be good to others. It a nudge towards forgiveness, a step towards trust and leap towards survival. It may not be the bible, but it certainly speaks of truth. It is enlightening and- after reading it- makes me feel that content feeling of devouring my favourite meal in the company of family.


So, as I take comfort in averting my eyes from the mass of emails and distruption and soaking up the ever-truthful words, so too do I hope that you do the same.

Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise and the haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible, without surrender,
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even to the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons;
they are vexatious to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain or bitter,
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs,
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals,
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love,
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment,
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be.
And whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace in your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

Love & Gratitude x