As we bid farewell to another year, I'm reaching out for one last time in 2023. It's time we all embraced a well-deserved break after a year that, for many, has been nothing short of hectic.

Reflecting on the past twelve months, I hope you found moments of success and fulfilment, even amidst the challenges our world continues to face. It's heartening to remember that for every dark moment, there are countless instances of human kindness and resilience.

Just this morning, during my usual walk, I encountered a young plumber diligently repairing a leaking pipe amidst blooming roses. Our brief interaction, marked by his earnest apology for the splashing water and my heartfelt appreciation for his work, reminded me of the simple yet profound impacts of our everyday heroes.

In stark contrast, the news from global fronts, like the recent updates from Gaza, often paints a grimmer picture. It's a reminder of the complex and often distressing geopolitical landscape we navigate. While it's easy to feel disheartened, I believe in the goodness that prevails in our world. I firmly hold onto the idea that the majority, like our everyday plumbers, are there contributing positively, overshadowed yet undeterred by the actions of a few.

As we enter the festive season, I encourage you to reflect on the 'plumbers' in your life – those who make your daily life a little brighter and easier. How can we acknowledge and appreciate them? Imagine the ripple effect of kindness and gratitude we can create, one person at a time.

May your holidays be filled with joy, peace, and the warmth of human connection. Here's to a Merry Christmas and a hopeful New Year 2024. Let's meet again with renewed spirits and fresh perspectives.

Ngā Mihi

Jussi

Book of the week: Atlas of the Heart

"Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience" by Brené Brown is a comprehensive exploration of the emotions and experiences that define the human condition. 

Brown is a kind of celebrity and has gained a large following because her message is so relevant: know yourself and accept yourself as you are. She keeps diving deeper into our emotions and motives, giving us tools to understand them better.

The book uses the map as a metaphor and is structured around understanding and naming our emotions, which is crucial for emotional well-being. She talks about emotional literacy, and I fully agree it is one of the most important things we can learn.

The book is filled with personal stories, research findings, and practical advice, making it both engaging and informative.

Throughout "Atlas of the Heart," Brown encourages readers to embrace vulnerability as a strength. She discusses how openness to our feelings can lead to greater empathy, courage, and connection. The book guides us in understanding ourselves and others better, promoting emotional awareness as a path to a more fulfilling life.

It is a perfect Christmas gift for yourself. It helps us to become a gift for others instead of being a pain in their rear side. 

You can get the book from Brown's website here.