Life in the Slow Lane

Yesterday was the summer solstice. We rose just after 5am without alarm and took a long morning walk. There was a magical sense to everything, because we were expecting there to be. We were seeking gratitude, reflection, awareness and connection, and so it was. We spent time with the water, told each other how we appreciate one another and enjoyed the only moment there ever is – now. What a gift, here in the southern hemisphere, to have the longest day with the sun, before we celebrate the birthday of the son. 

This time of year used to induce stress in me; work was always the most busy, events were back to back, I would worry that I missed someone on my gifting list and sleep would be slim. Now it is all upside down. Christmas is a time for slow motion. I draw out the moments by being fully in them. We eat with intention, we tell each other what we appreciate, we watch nature and expect miracles. These are the gifts we have been given. 

As we enter 2025, I am reminded that it’s been five years since we were invited to change with the shutting down and realignment. We were all given new paths and had to make decisions quickly. I wonder, outside of the practical ways COVID-19 effected us, how it altered our heart and consciousness, both individually and collectively. I know mine went askew in the thick of it all. It’s taken a long and meditative time to find my way back. Some of my greatest inspirations; Marion Woodman, Ram Dass and Mary Oliver, all left this world just before the pandemic. Their doors to heaven were opened having completed millions of moments of love, truth and art. I refer to their work to help remind me who I have been, and intend to be. 

We are halfway through the 20s now, in a decade of ‘resets’. I can’t think of a more important time to be present and connected to sun / son / source. This Christmas I just want to relish in all that I am grateful for. We never know how long we have to absorb all of the sweetness of life.

Some sensory references from the aforementioned angels…

East Forest – Ram Dass (Full Album) 2019

Sitting by the Well – Marion Woodman 

How I go into the woods by Mary Oliver

Ordinarily I go to the woods alone,
with not a single friend,
for they are all smilers and talkers
and therefore unsuitable.
I don’t really want to be witnessed talking to the catbirds
or hugging the old black oak tree.
I have my ways of praying,
as you no doubt have yours.
Besides, when I am alone
I can become invisible.
I can sit on the top of a dune
as motionless as an uprise of weeds,
until the foxes run by unconcerned.
I can hear the almost unhearable sound of the roses singing.
If you have ever gone to the woods with me,
I must love you very much.

“Be here now.” — Ram Dass