Deep Life Reflections: Friday Five
Issue 92 - One Year On
Welcome to Issue 92 of Deep Life Reflections.
For many, this is a time of travel and celebration as we approach the Christmas holidays. I’ve returned to the UK to spend it with family and friends. This is a very different Christmas than last year, which I spent in intensive care. I wanted to reflect a little on that today, one year on.
For this edition, and the next two, I’ll be putting together a special version of Deep Life Reflections. These issues will be a little shorter, reflecting the season, but hopefully just as contemplative, offering moments to look back on and forward to the year ahead.
One year ago yesterday, December 19, 2023, I underwent open-heart surgery to replace a defective heart valve.
In the twelve months since, I’ve really focused on trying to be as present as possible, staying in the moment.
I’ve traveled to some of my favorite countries, like Thailand and Spain, qualified as a professional coach, spent quality time with friends and family, and continued to enjoy simple pleasures like reading, writing, films, and quiet walks.
It’s been especially rewarding to help others find more clarity in their lives as a coach and to support those facing the difficult news of requiring heart surgery.
One of my favourite quotes is by Charles Dickens:
“No-one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.”
We all have that capacity, in whatever measure we can.
Yesterday, I took a quiet walk at sunset through the village of Endmoor in the Lake District. I love these cold winter days with deep blue skies. I want to share a few of these photographs and thoughts.
The walk reminded me of some of the themes from Walden by Henry David Thoreau, which I wrote about last week.
“Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of the earth.” - Walden
What are some of your favourite places to take a quiet walk, and what do they inspire in you?
Thanks for reading and reflecting on this special seasonal edition.
As always, thank you for being part of the Deep Life Journey community. I wish everyone a peaceful, reflective, and enjoyable holiday season.
Look after yourselves.
James
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