Changing concepts

As I come to the end of my winter stay in Thailand, I am aware of the changing nature of life which has demonstrated itself so clearly to me during the past three months. Put simply, I had one concept of a winter stay in Chiang Mai and, due to events beyond my control, I have now developed a different concept, one which is mercifully preferable to what went before which makes me very happy. The universe seems to have favoured me and I have found a greater sense of belonging. So, this time I am leaving Chiang Mai with a touch of regret and I am very thankful. It's a positive sort of regret that encourages me to know that I will be returning in due course. You know, it all has to do with people, how they are and what they are doing with their lives... the cultivating of the right friendships which make it possible to live a creative and stimulating life and to communicate interestingly with others. It is about having a sense of belonging and of feeling at ease in a place. And, being in Thailand, it is also helpful to have a mix of Thai and non-Thai friends so that one can be in touch with both one's own culture and the culture of Thailand.

I am no longer in a relationship and, in a curious way, this has freed me up and made it easier for me to put myself about and meet more people. Sometimes, relationships can be confining, although I don't feel mine had to be although I was inclined to make it so. But, no more. This idea of being free is an important one in life, not to be confined by convention or fear, but rather to be guided by open-mindedness and heartfelt consideration for others. It is the people who make a place, particularly a city place which is rather divorced from nature, and so it is important to put oneself about in a gentle way and get involved in creative activities that bring both pleasure and well-being. This all lifts the spirits. And it's amazing in a place like this how many people are doing things for others and so spreading well-being through their heartfelt actions. There are many lovely people living to a greater or lesser extent from their hearts and so expressing their humanity. And it is these people who make a place worth living in. So, that is why I hope to be back in Chiang Mai next year, God willing.