Take the Time

I stretch my arms wide

to embrace a new day

a new dawn

a new year!

Against the blue of an unencumbered sky, 

a silhouetted branch shows me a journey ahead

with many choices of side paths along the way.

The choice is mine.

Many people like to choose an inspirational word for a new year.

I have noticed that short phrases speak to me better.

They take me by the hand and lead me to pastures new.

Take the time to live each moment fully

just the way it comes to me.

This is an idea which speaks to me in all areas of my life.

Taking the time to drop everything when a magical lighting

draws me out of my home.

How to resist this sky, the silhouetted trees and houses

and those suspended street lamps which say:

"Follow us, follow us and you will never lose your way!"

Just before Christmas, I joined my family in the mountains.

The wide view of the valley and the surrounding scenery 

showed me a view on a larger scale to the one I see in the city every day.

I love the lights on the roads and in the homes

which illuminate the hills as night advances.

I was up early to witness and enjoy the sunrise on the mountain tips

from the terrace of the chalet.

Back to my neighbourhood to find the beauty in my own environment

and take in the gracefulness of the tree silhouettes at sunset.

Taking the time to slow down and catch those golden rays

of the setting sun shining through glass on a small building.

The weather-vane shows me a direction, 

but I know how changeable it is - according to which way the wind blows.

I like this unpredictability

which is just like life!

So I smile and just follow the light

and know I can't go wrong!

A pure white full moon

shining brightly in the sky, a mandala

waiting for me to design the pattern of my year.

I will start in the middle and work my way outwards

choosing my colours with care.

This photo was taken on my balcony on December 25th.

But for now,

the time has come to lift up my anchor and sail.

Let the adventure begin!