Happy New Year!
Please accept my very best wishes for you and your family for the year ahead.
You know, life can be unpredicatable, and throw things at us which we don’t expect, and it can be hard to adapt to the changes which unexpected events and circumstance bring. What is crucial at such times is a support network. I say network, but this need only be one person. What matters most is they are someone you can trust, someone you can be yourself with, to support you to adapt to the changes you may be facing. Also, change can be a companion of decisions you have voluntarily made, the effects of which you nevertheless find difficult, for example a change of work or country.
Nature never fails to inspire me. It also reminds me that if there is one constant in life, it is change, for example, the seasons and all the changes that go along with them. What I find comforting is that nature’s cycle of change has been going on for millenia. Its constancy and predictability is what is comforting, and the thought that despite any current difficulties, I will still be here this time next year to enjoy life.
For me, one of the most amazing changes in nature is the conversion of a caterpillar (maybe not so cute) into a graceful, beautiful, butterfly. At times of change, I find it helpful to get out into nature, and allow myself some time to reflect on matters. Keeping a journal to write down your thoughts can also help – it gets them off your mind and onto paper, where you can develop a clearer perspective on things.
Reaching out for support, especially for men, can be difficult, but the benefits can really boost your quality of life. If you are facing challenging circumstances this year, my wish is that you have the support you need and deserve.
Best wishes to you all for 2023
Michael