Jackie' Boy

I am grateful to know that whatever we go through or endure in life is towards our growth; I am also grateful to know that this year 2010 is almost over. [hahah] I know it sounds absolutely silly, but I seriously am appreciative of the lessons I've learnt, but looking forward to and expecting great new and exciting things. I know that in the future, resilience will be almost as a reflex action and understanding and patience is what follows. Remembering is wonderful and friends and family that continue to remind you and help you to tune in to the frequency of life here on earth.

I've known people who find it easier to spend time with their pets/animals rather than people; and others who've appreciated time by themselves as opposed to socializing or attending group events. I understand these people, as I too, as a child was painfully shy and much rather enjoyed reading and writing from the comfort of my favourite tree. It's alright to be different and of a gentler nature; the world at times, as well as many of our fellow peers tend to be harsh, callous and hypocritical; making our lives seem like a living hell. It is sometimes loads easier to immerse yourself with kind beings like animals or stories from books. But there are others who view the world as you do, according to the 'Desiderata', despite the world's sham and drudgery, it is still a beautiful world.

When you are embarking upon great things, the devils/enemies/evil spirits are let out to try to break your spirit. You must be strong and never lose sight of your goal, because it will soon happen, once you never lose sight of your ultimate vision.

I love the final scene in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, when 'Chief Bromden' played by Will Sampson finally believes in himself and garners the strength he always had within him to lift the heavy 'structure' and bust his way out of the mental institution. He said, "But Mac, you're bigger than me!" and my beloved Jackie boy, Jack Nicholson, who plays 'Randle P. McMurphy' responds by saying that he was the biggest man he'd ever seen. Sometimes you just have to believe in yourself to master your greatest feats/fears. And sometimes during tragedy and adversity it is then that you find yourselves and learn about yourself, more than you ever did.

Be conscious of the 'real' beauty around you; it is good to use your heart, but also wise to use your head, we only use 10% of our brains, if we use the 2 together, what magnificent beings we could become. The heart tells you the truth and gives you energy, and the brain gives answers and solutions. I often wished I could have a travel partner on my many journeys; and I hadn't escaped to explore this year, but I'm already planning out my travel itinerary for next year. New discoveries and re-discoveries are in order; and whether I'm alone or not, I expect great things! J

Remember, that there is a difference between 'nothing comes easy' and 'trying hard at something'; for when something is right, you enjoy the journey, there are no doubts and it is not a chore. If you are constantly hitting your head into a brick wall, in the sake of achieving something with little or no progress, then it is probably for a reason. When you try hard at something, but have an innate desire to achieve it, you will succeed when the time is right…

I would like to leave you with the words of the Desiderata, by Max Ehrmann 1927:

Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let not this blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore, be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams; it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful.

Strive to be happy.