Lessons of 2020

2020 has indeed taught us many lessons. The vulnerability has been my major one. I’ve learned that I am vulnerable, I have limits and I need to respect them. I’m not stronger as I was in my 20s and 30s. My body and mind crave more attention. I need to set boundaries. This year I accepted that I’m an introvert and it’s OK to say NO and to prioritize my space, my moments of quiet.

My last post here was in October, I didn’t post anything in November. I had to evaluate my blogging path. I love all the connections and friends I’ve made during these 7 years of blogging. I’ve joined many challenges during the years and enjoyed them, but they were putting pressure on me. I was feeling obligated to post until in days that I had nothing to say. I don’t want this kind of pressure, it’s already enough everything that we go through with family, job… I wish this space to be free, a place that I can fly and create without boundaries, and not deadlines. So, from now on, no more challenges, only a few musings here and there.

Run from what’s comfortable. Forget safety. Live where you fear to live. Destroy your reputation. Be notorious. I have tried prudent planning long enough. From now on I’ll be mad.

Rumi

I’d be happy to hear how 2020 has been treating you, any lessons?

October Kindness

autumn berries

Oh October, I’m already missing you! All the colours, freshness and coziness you have brought to our days.

Last day of October Squares, It was great to register a few moments of kindness during this month. Below is a gallery with all the photos. Check here if you wish to have a pick at my July Perspectives and compare summer and autumn photos. Thanks Becky for the lovely challenge.

October Squares – Kind

A view

Lunch time view from my office

The campus used to be full of students at this time of the year since is the middle of the term.

Today they would be wearing costumes and they would visit all the departments to get treats. The faculty would be dressed up too to give treats. I would wear my old witch hat, and a spider stick on my hand.

Halloween at the university is a tradition that we all look forward to. The students, most of them young adults, behave like kids. It’s lots of fun to watch them discussing their treats with their peers and commenting on which department has given the best ones. I love to see their costumes and the smile on their faces.

This year, with all the classes online, it’s difficult to spot a student on campus. I hope they find a way to enjoy themselves this Halloween.

October Squares – Kind

Inwards

The is a candle in your heart, ready to be kindled.

There is a void in your soul, ready to be filled.

You feel it, don’t you?

Rumi

I took this photo at 7 am today. It was pitch-dark outdoors. I could feel the stillness in the air. I lit a few candles and journaled. This last week of October is special to me in same way. I’m not sure why, maybe the darkness and changes outdoors, the need to focus inwards … It’s OK! I don’t need to understand, I need to be present and to be kind to myself.

Have a great and Nurturing Thursday.

October Squares – Kind

Colours

in my studio

When the softness of the colours explains much more about my feelings than words and images. When I feel lost and I try to find the answers between lines and dots….

I spent the morning writing and thinking in my studio. The world is loud right now and I crave silence and solitude. I need to look inwards and listen to my soul. I’m an introvert and I always fought with myself about it, I tried to change my essence to please others. Acceptance is the key!

Wishing a lovely Sunday to you!

October Squares – Kind