The Unexpected

Sometimes no matter what you are doing, surprises can be just what you need.


Having recently driven a long way on winding, single track roads in the dark, I stopped to sleep in a layby. It was dawn when I woke up to find terrific views that got better the lighter it became.

It seems a good metaphor for life that sometimes when it seems too dark to carry on, stopping and waiting can lead to a whole new perspective. But ......

You have to be prepared to look, to be open to what you may see

Engaging - reflection

Grizedale Tarn, Cumbria

Grizedale Forest, yes one of those up for sale earlier in the year, can be very busy. People of all ages come for fitness, relaxation, running, mountain biking or simply to occupy the kids. Yet while the main paths can be busy, going a little further leads to locations such as Grizedale Tarn. Here you are far enough away for there to be no crowds, allowing the perfect opportunity for reflection.

Stopping is the first part of the process. Having walked up to the valley ridge this is always welcome, just as it is good to stop whenever we feel too pushed with lots happening. Stopping here you are immediately struck by the silence, you listen but on a still day there may be no sound at all, simply peace. But it's good to engage other senses too. So this is the next stage, notice the view, the reflection of clouds, the myriad of colours.

Notice too the scent of pine trees, damp earth, the cool air, softness of bark, roughness of timber, really try to engage all your senses, what can you see, hear, feel, taste and smell in your experience right now?

The great thing is when you pause to notice your surroundings, your senses, your breath, you cannot help but be in the moment. Whatever you notice can help give you a different perspective, a sense of balance.