My dearest reader,
The beginning of this winter started very mild in its temperatures, while the skies were gloomier. I noticed dark and grey clouds hovering over cities in the Netherlands concealing the sun exposure on a daily basis. If I have to take this song serious “Always take the weather with you” by Crowded House, I would be more moody than happy around the autumn and winter periods. When the cold wind is penetrating my skin, it enters deep into my bones, my only wishful thoughts are to teleport myself where the sun always shines above 25 degrees. Besides the cold, grey weather and the cozy outdoor flashy lights shining, it is also that time of the year people reflect on life, assessing their curriculum from January till December.
I don’t hate winter nor do I love it. Between the four walls of the comfort of my home, the temperatures are usually set above 22 degrees. If I am not forced to step out of the house, I enjoy sipping out of my favorite Mr. Biggs cup of herbal tea. Relaxing on the couch watching a good scripted movie or reading an intriguing book and falling in between asleep is the peak of a free your mind moment.
Besides, who doesn’t enjoy watching the extortionate Christmas outdoor home decorations of their devoted neighbors? It creates an ambiance of bright cozy jolly streets. Otherwise this season would look extremely depressing to be in Europe during this special season. Sometimes, I complain out loud about the weather especially when I don’t see sun for 2-3 days in a row. Recently my youngest child told me before going to bed that his day’s moodiness was the result of no sun. I chuckled on how funny yet serious it sounded to hear a child say what makes a lot of sense to me. I was curious to know if it was something, he had overheard me say. Or does he already know at such a young age what sun deficiency can do to one’s energy and mood? I explained that the weather has a big influence, but it shouldn’t determine the way we treat others or our mood. We have the power to choose our behavior in every situation. Not letting the weather control our state of mind. He smiled after my explanation, I think he got the message.
When you have (young) children, your goals instantly multiply. You start to work on the goals you have set for them such as getting swim degrees, doing (sport) activities and so on. A few weeks ago, I remembered my mood board of 2019. I realized that one of my goals was only accomplished last year. The entire period up to 2024 I was so frustrated, ready to give up. In 2023, I made slight modifications to the requirements of that goal, which finally happened the following year. It sometimes takes another view, a change in direction to make things happen. Also it might not be the right time for the goal to manifest, it is a journey. For that particular dream it took me 5 years. As long as you keep striving it eventually will happen, if it is meant for you. “Faith is being sure of what we hope for, certain of what we don’t see.” Hebrews 11:1. One of my favorite bible verses.
No longer do I stare blindly at unchecked goals at the end of the year. As a result, it reduced my anxiety of December. Don’t get me wrong, goals are good guidelines for (future) wants and needs. We all need them to direct us to find our purpose of life. However, my main goal is to live a life of creating good and happy memories with family and loved ones. As well as being my authentic self, sharing and caring for others creating a space of positive energy. We can’t see what the future entails, also because the influence of the outside world (war, inflation, government policies, economy) impacts our lives. I rather focus on what I do have and can do to make the best out of every day. Long life is not a guarantee. We all have an expiration date. My prayer for you and me is that 2026 get us through all of the (mental) difficulties we had, as for our unchecked goals and dreams let it manifest.
Be good to yourself! Also stay blessed and safe in 2026! Best wishes and feel free to share your thoughts about my thoughts. I am always curious to hear from you.
With love, Chi
