Delightfully mixed up day. Although mostly focused around Theological Institute business, I travelled across the Highlands to a small village to visit a candidate for ministry. After an excellent meeting, I was picked up by my partner and son and we went to a Perfume Workshop for lunch and a mooch round. I was all set for aromatherapy oils and massage creams - but no, it was pretty much a fairly standard Highland eaterie and wee shop. They all seem so similar - few rows of not always gifted artists' dabs; some smellies and scarves (why import from Italy - have we no notable local weavers? Probably not); the inevitable luxury pots of mustard and chutney and a pricey restaurant. The view, on one of the few beautiful days this summer was breathtaking. We sat outside with Coronation Chicken open sandwiches which required a second mortgage and were lost in the shear beauty that surrounded us. The light played on the water in an incredible way. It truly did glitter. Tiny, ever changing jewels, shimmering and quivering.
Jessie (Newfoundland) and Rainbow (Guide Dog) kept us company at our picnic table. Jessie seemed to yearn for the water - and I will let her swim tomorrow on the shore if the weather holds.
Stunning drive home through more breath-taking scenery.
Back to work with a bump. Calls and reports. Supper to cook and shopping to unpack! Still feel as though I have been on holiday today.
Themes around for me today:
Enjoy the moment.
Delight in what is given.
However hard - stay authentic - be what you are and don't try and be what people would like you to be. It's a much harder life in the long run.
Never judge a person on what you have heard; talk to them and much, much more important listen. Have the courage to connect.
Use your intuition and don't give people the benefit of the doubt when you know they aren't for real deep in your heart. Authenticity is about recognising and owning your insights not just your actions.
Old friends who encourage and engage are worth their weight in gold.
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