Older and Wiser

As 2010 draws to a close and I look at all the things I have done – that I have experienced, contributed to or been a part of – well frankly I’m amazed at just what I have packed in!

It’s been a busy year and one that has taken many unexpected twists and turns, with the highlight most definitely being the surprise trip to America for my birthday in October.    Coming close behind was my experience on Dartmoor with the students from Birmingham – what a week that was – and then there was my London city break with Roy, the day trips, shows, dinners, evenings with friends, travel up and down the country for work, HRH Prince Philip at the RSA – so many good memories.

It’s also been a year of coming to terms with loss, and understanding and managing grief.   It’s over a year now since mum died – our second Christmas without her.  I still cry.   We all do.     Something about that whole experience opened a window in to my soul, and I cry so easily at so many things now.   I feel things so much more and certainly experiences of others – real or fictional – touch me deeply.   Perhaps that person was always there, waiting underneath, and a veneer of protection has been peeled away.

So am I older and wiser?   I think I can hold my hand up to both.  I have learned so much about myself in the last twelve months, and about others.   Relationships have deepened, bonds have strengthened, journeys have been shared.   I’ve enjoyed 2010 and I’m looking forward to the year ahead.

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