Welcome to April!
We are already one third of the way through the year and I wonder how time is passing by for you in your own worlds. It seems like a lifetime ago since I returned from Cambridge, unsure of what was to come but thankful that I had a steady and constant home to be welcomed back into...but at the same time, the memories of last term in Cambridge seem strangely close! As we continue during this period of isolation, I can only guess at how you may all be feeling...Anything, everything and even nothing is understandable, given that we are restricted in so many ways. Yet, I hope that this blog, like others coming previously, gives you opportunity to sit quietly for a few moments and think about your own daily situations and you may be able to manage them best. The quote above rings true to me in the current, restricted situation. It may seem as if we have given up our lives and socialising as Homo sapiens, but we are inherently social creatures and very adaptive. In reality, we can reminisce even more about past enjoyments and enjoy reflecting on the memories with those nearest and dearest sitting around you, or in the nearby virtual Zoom room :)
What is more, we will look forward to opportunities in the world even more so when we return back to normality and hopefully there will be a renewed worldwide sense about the importance of family and loved ones.
William Penn says:
"Time is what we want most, but what we use worst"
These words demonstrate that we have everything we need, but we need to figure out the best use of these resources available. Now is the time to do your best.
When recently enjoying the increased leisure time to spend reading for pleasure beyond academic studying, I came across an intriguing concept. It provides a usual foundation, from which we consider how best to use what is available to us.
Cathedral Thinking.
Reaching back through centuries to medieval times, it originated when architects, stonemasons and craftsmen had to begin construction of the cavernous, rising building structures which served as places of worship and most importantly, as safe havens for myriads of people. Since then, the notion has been utilised often, applying to space exploration, city planning and other long-term goals that require much planning in order that future generations can enjoy their full realisation. In medieval times there would have been uncertainty at the start as to the culmination of the decoration, particularly in regards to decoration of the ceiling and other ornamental aspects such as stain-glass windows. Would the walls be strong enough to support the ceiling? Would there be enough building materials? How would the ceiling be finished, given its raised elevation above ground? These and many other similar questions undoubtedly would have passed through the minds of the constructors, but nevertheless, they trusted their skills and the buildings came to fruition. Over 3000 cathedrals remain for us to behold, a poignant reminder of the importance of firm foundations required to enable future successes.
Similarly now, while we are spending time at home with family and loved ones, we have the opportunity to establish our firm foundations in our own lives. Strengthen connections with those around us with respect for the future, beyond this situation of isolation and restricted movement.
Try adapting your daily thinking to encompass a soaring perspective like this and simply observe what takes place...
"Life is short. There is no time to leave important words unsaid"
What profound words and most pertinent for the environment in which people from all backgrounds and ages have been affected differently. Let us be grateful for waking up in the morning and having connections with loved ones, wherever they are in the world...
In 1856, Abraham Lincoln quoted the famous phrase "Actions speak louder than words". I do agree with this, but is it as relevant in our current situation? Just like the previous quote about our short lives suggested, there seems to be more of a requirement for words currently. Because we cannot physically demonstrate our care and thought for others in the current situation, words have to suffice. Take care in how you express yourself.
And all of the love I see
Please please say you feel it too...
Christina Perri's lyrics highlight the significance of words and their power to reassure others of how you feel. Undoubtedly, we will all experience our own individual concerns and worries at some point throughout this period of uncertainty for varying lengths of time. It may not feel right to speak out about your feelings, especially as many of us may be unused to continuous duration of time spent in one household and so do not want to spread negativity or distress. However, when you feel able, I urge you all to look out for yourself and those around you on a daily basis as the situation will affect us all variably. Try to be mindful in what you say whenever possible and remember that others may be more likely to take your words to heart. There is more space and time to internalise other people's words. Be kind to others, and most importantly, to yourself.
Ralph Waldo Emerson said "Speech is power: speech is to persuade, to convert, to compel". This reiterates the power of words and how we should be aware of their authority, most especially within the current atmosphere where restricts already put us in an environment of tension, to some extent. Listen contains the same letters as silent. A powerful thought!
As a consequence of the covid-19 situation, I have set up another instagram account which you can follow for daily foodie inspiration. Thank you to everyone who has already followed my account and I sincerely hope that it is helping to encourage you as to the simplicity and joy which can be found in everyday baking and cooking with a beautiful variety of ingredients. Please click on the photo below and follow the account for continued culinary specialities...the photo displays homemade pesto and nutmeg mushrooms, accompanied by fresh rocket on a slice of toasted giant hot cross bun :)
Pies or pasties, cakes or crumbles, I hope that you enjoy experimenting during this time as it has been a pleasure for me to share my culinary creations...it is wonderful to be able to create a plate full of flavour and beautiful colours and I am sure that you will be able to take delight in the kitchen. Good luck and do let me know if you have any suggestions for the future.
I hope that you all enjoyed a relaxing and indulgent chocolate-filled Easter and I would like to take this opportunity to remind you of the Queen's speech of address on the 5th April. Pythagoras, the ancient Ionian Greek philosopher, said "Do not say a little in many words but a great deal in a few" and I wholeheartedly agree that this may be a useful approach to the current situation. Regardless of your religious or spiritual beliefs, I think that there is much to be connected between her speech and Pythagoras. In her message of hope to the nation, her Majesty acknowledged that there would be more challenge to come, but that "better days will return". She extended her appreciation to the NHS and everyone who is helping, alongside reminding us of the importance to stay at home to protect the wider community. Having evoked her first broadcast from 1940, her later phrase "we will meet again" called to mind the famous wartime song by Vera Lynn. Her short and poignant speech reiterates the significance of the words used, particularly in the current situation. Totalling only 532 words in duration, her speech was watched by 24 million of us, and I hope you can appreciate how inspiring and dignified a woman she appeared in her address. The second most-watched broadcast of the year so far.
Don't waste tears because it has ended, smile because it happened...
Taken from TV series Benidorm, the words above which also begin this blog, reiterate the importance of appreciating what we have enjoyed thus far in our lives and cherishing that we have had these memories to treasure. Take comfort and be reassured that the current situation will pass. D.B Harrop astutely recognises "It is the transience of life which proves its inestimable worth". All is transitory.
When enjoying an early morning run this week, I was delighted by a shower of pretty pink petals blowing down from above, creating an exquisite carpet on the ground as I ran through. This experience reminded me of the value of acknowledging the little things in our lives in general daily situations. Recognise the extra time available to us all and how we may continue to share good will and love throughout our community. I wish you the very best in these uncertain times and hope that you and all your loved ones stay healthy, happy and safe. #staysafe
I hope you have enjoyed reading this blog alongside a variety of brightly coloured photos and expressive quotes. Above displays one of my favourite views of Lymm Dam, which I am grateful to have had the opportunity to visit frequently during this period of isolation and can share with you all as a snippet into one of my daily routines. I urge you all to find a favourite spot in Nature, whether in your garden or on a preferred walk, where you can take time to appreciate the little things too. Until next time, I will leave you with inspiring words from Marcus Aurelius, a Stoic philosopher who was the last emperor of the Pax Romana, the age of peace and stability for the Roman Empire. Stay confident in yourselves and know that you are loved. I extend an enveloping hug out to you all and encourage you to be true to yourselves and enjoy things which give you pleasure in this time, surrounded by those whom you love.
I terminate with these words from Marcus Aurelius:
All you need are these; certainty of judgement in the present moment; action for the common good in the present moment; and an attitude of gratitude in the present moment for anything that comes your way.
Lots of love always,
Sitara xxx
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