Iona Winter

On a trip to The Big Smoke last week, I noticed how sped up and disconnected it all seemed. My response was one of sadness. At times, I had to ask people to slow down as they spoke to me. Yes okay, a contributing factor might be my declining hearing. However, what I noticed (most glaringly) was how quickly life can change, in a relatively short period of time.

Yesterday was a beautiful Otago day, so I went for a walk in nature. There were plenty of birds talking to me as I walked along (my hearing was fine, by the way). When I lived in The Big Smoke, taking time to BE in nature was usually squeezed in. Often all I could manage was to (briefly) stand barefooted, on the handkerchief-sized patch of grass out the back and breathe. It was difficult to make space to connect with nature. Naturally this raises many questions, which I won’t go into here. 

On the drive back yesterday, my companion and I talked about how the walk was as good as a holiday. We felt so completely relaxed, peaceful and replenished. Geez, if I’d known this before I could’ve saved myself years of (quiet) envy toward those who could afford holidays. BUT now I know. Envy is highly toxic anyhow – better off without that rubbish I say!

I realise now what a HUGE change it’s been, rearranging and reshaping my life to enable creativity to be more of a focus. It’s not a token gesture, or an appendage to be brandished around when it feels convenient to do so. It’s the real deal. That said, some days I don’t know what to do with myself…so I go for a walk.

Should I be writing 24/7? Hang on a minute…did I work 24/7 before? I think it would be fair to say that there has been some confusion, doubt and panic flying about of late. Is this what I really want to do? Or am I just having a play at it?

Yes, I truly want to write. Seriously. No mucking around. BUT I also have to pay the rent, so am grateful I’ve got other useful skills (to assist with that matter). To be honest, I’m working it out as I go.

Change has been infinitely better than a holiday. Change has meant that life diverted from its previous route (of heading down a one way street). Change (fears and worries aside) means freedom.

Today’s challenge is to step outside, breathe in the air, and if you can, to get your bare feet on the earth. Enjoy your freedom today my friends, it only takes a moment.