Jen, I Love You |
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Season’s Greetings Jen, Do you feel a mixture of positive and negative emotions at this time of the year? If, like me, you do, then arms around you my dear. I’ve found something that can be of comfort, and it’s based on the Hawaiian forgiveness chant – Ho’oponopono. Basically, I say these words out loud: Jen I love you, Jen I thank you, Jen I’m sorry, Jen I forgive you . After saying this repeatedly like a mantra (in any order), combined with a few rounds of deep breathing, I normally feel more nurtured and compassionate towards myself. I also feel supported when listening to Karen Drucker sing her version of the Hoóponopono on Spotify. |
Something else that I find joyful and comforting at this time of year is Jacquie Lawson’s interactive advent calendar. I wake up each December morning full of anticipation of what new scene or activity is waiting for me today. I love the way I can decorate my own Parisian apartment how ever I like, and be creative with tasks and games. Honestly, for me, it’s one of the best things about Christmas.  Driving around Brisbane and seeing the way people go to so much trouble and expense decorating the outside of their homes with lights also fills me with sheer delight, as does mindfully decorating our tree. |
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My favourite food at this time of the year is the Kensington Pride mango, which inspired me back in 2015 to write the poem, Life’s a Mango, after devouring one leaning over the kitchen sink. It’s ok to be kind to myself, to give myself a hug, and to feel grateful that I’m still here for my 62nd Christmas on Earth. My first one as a grandmother. There’s a strange longing though to return to my past. I wish I could go back for just one day to my seven-year-old self. To see the shapes in my bedroom as I wake up in the early morn and try to guess what Santa has left me, to watch my dad carve the ham and my grandfather walk from the kitchen to the dining room holding the plate with the Christmas pudding - a blue flame from the brandy burning on top. To see the love in the eyes of my smiling grandparents as they walk down our driveway with a suitcase (full of presents) and to know I was so loved by my mum and dad, who also loved one another. Arms around you my friend. I send you a virtual hug and wish you a Christmas time where you feel safe, nurtured, loved, heard and valued. And if you don’t, then know that this too will pass. Merry Christmas. Love, Jen xo 🎅🎄🎁 |
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