Magic

For some, the magic of Christmas is still very much alive, and for others, Christmas can be a tough time of the year.

At times, I struggle living on the other side of the world away from family and friends. I also reminisce of loved ones lost, memories of times when our family was complete… Maybe you feel the same?

In the absence of those we hold dear, we must work a little harder to embrace the joys of Christmas. Over the years, there are a few things that have helped me to remain open to the magic of Christmas, and I’d like to share them with you:

1. Take the focus off yourself. The act of giving naturally places you into a position of receiving. When you give your time, love, patience and gifts to others, this simple act of service ignites a sense of peace and fulfilment within. Make somebody smile this Christmas with your words or actions and feel the warmth it brings to your heart.
2. Spend time with children. If you wish to feel more of the magic of Christmas, be in the company of children. Whether they are your nieces, nephews, or your own offspring, spending time with children at Christmas is the surest way to connect with your own inner child. If you don’t have young ones in your family, consider taking gifts to a children’s hospital. Share the joy of Christmas with those who need it most.
3. Slow Down. It’s so easy to get caught up in the mayhem of Christmas that it’s no wonder the magic can often feel lost. We over spend, over eat and over ‘do’ to the point we become stressed, burnt out and blue. This Christmas, slow down. Take your time and be present. Simplify simplify simplify. Remember what the true magic of Christmas is about – connection. Take time to connect with strangers and loved ones, but most important, take time to connect with yourself. Take a stroll, a warm bubble bath or play your favourite Christmas jingles as you prepare a meal. Give yourself the gift of self-love.

I hope you received some little gems of magic in these simple, yet powerful tips. Embracing you all in a warm, loving hug. May your time be filled with magical, loving connections this Christmas and beyond.

In love & light,

Hayley xx

 

Little People

Today I watched as the students at school played table tennis against the reining champion, or ‘the King’ as they call him – a cheeky sort of chappy, and popular with his friends. In line with the children stood a bashful girl with Down Syndrome. As she stepped up to the table to take on the champ, I witnessed a beautiful moment of courage and connection. The ‘King’, usually witty and teasing in nature, switched his demeanor to one of pure warmth and compassion. As the girl struggled to aim and hit the ball, he encouraged, complimented and nurtured her. I was humbled by this display of empathy rarely seen among peer groups of today.

‘Courage doesn’t always roar.’

– Mary Radmatcher

Courage can be found in these simple acts of kindness that are often overlooked. Courage is witnessed in those whose endurance is often silent in strength. It is the father who is also ‘mother’ to his two children because ‘Mummy is with the angels now…’ It is the toilet attendant who escaped the bombs, and smiles though her eyes tell of heartache and loss… It is the paramedic who holds a strangers hands and comforts him during his final breaths…It is elderly gentleman working long into his retirement to ensure there is enough food to eat…It is the young girl that wakes before sunrise to care for her sick grandmother before school…

Today, let us not forget the courage and strength found in ordinary people. May we ease the suffering of others wherever possible and acknowledge that we are all in this together. Above all else, let us be kind. Because ‘the world may not acknowledge the courage of little people, but it would fall apart without their courage and endurance.’

In love & light,

Hayley xx