When did you last look at the world in a different way? What perspectives were available to you – more possible – as a result?
The most abrupt shift in my perspective happened when Emily was born, and is continuing to change and build each day, in response to observing and listening to her. The first thought that came on in my earliest days of becoming a mother was the cyclic nature of life; how we all at some stage have had to be nursed and cared for, otherwise survival would have not occurred. It made me look at others with new understanding, with the knowledge that at our truest we are a result of our very early days. (This thought became helpful for me when encountering those I found overpowering or intimidating).
At the same time, it made me acknowledge my own mother and everything she has ever done for me. Now experiencing her position, I'm realizing that even the littlest gesture can be an enormous hurdle — for that day, perhaps. All of the offers that go unnoticed. The second, was how quickly Emily began to mimic our ways, venturing into the world with untaught rhythms or impulsion, undoubtedly led by strains of our genes unforgivingly flowing through her. This had added even deeper layers of respect (including both admiration and qualities to laugh off!) for both my partner Matthew and myself.
Answers are hidden in plain sight. Tell us about a recent (re)discovery in your everyday.
Matthew used to always make the bread in the house, but with all the time constraints of becoming a working Dad, he has hung up his apron! So, I decided I would give it a go. I've made a focaccia loaf, a rye boule, and whole grain pizza bases. None were a disaster, but each definitely needs a tweak. This week's mission is to make a raisin + spice fruit loaf. Fingers crossed.
I enjoy the daily responsibility of feeding the starter, it reminds me to 'check in' on other parts of my life too: have I watered the plants?, are my hips feeling tight?, do I need to call my sister? I also love the way bread making takes very simple ingredients and turns it into something nourishing and beneficial. It is a reminder to me of how honest human power can be beneficial to the world from a small scale, or, how the little things we do all add up.
What in your life have you recently made more simple?
Doing one thing at a time, and being okay with that. I have not mastered this, but it's a new phrase that I force my thoughts to come back to.
