The Stardust Within

The mind of a child is flawless and pure; the reflection of an untainted soul. Their innermost senses allow for the flow of waves, and while some waves come in larger than others, they learn how to deal and respond to them. A child's mind is fresh and new, with no concept of mistrust or negativity. Very rarely do they hold onto feelings of resentment. Grudges don’t exist in their world.  As parents, we can try to preserve this innocence – but only to a certain extent. We can’t cottonwool or protect our angels forever, and we cannot prevent them from experiencing the world.

When they’re of age, we send them to school – the ‘rat race’ as so many put it – and that’s where the contests begin. Outside influences soon determine their behaviours and the changes are evident every day. The world is harsh in this day and age, and as they grow into adults, they become competitive; some can become ruthless and greedy in a reach for stars that are sometimes unattainable.

Ambition is healthy. It's what gets people up in the morning. But failing to achieve can destroy self-confidence – and that’s where things can go wrong. Life is full of ups and downs, highs and lows, peaks and potholes – and our children need to be aware. While it is wonderful to dream and aim for the sky, there will be some dreams that won’t come to fruition.  We need to nurture and prepare young minds to accept that some goals aren't realistic. 

Why reach for the scarcest of stars,

when we should appreciate the star dust around us?

Some fallen stars may have landed in our pockets. 

We just need to stop and look inside. 

In searching for more, some neglect to notice what wonderful talents they already have – talents they are blessed with that should be encouraged. I believe when we are born, we are each given a star – it’s our job to polish it up, and help make it shine.

To know our talents, to realise and use them, can bring such contentment and joy. We should follow our instincts, no matter what age. Find what’s inside. Because some dreams were meant to be fulfilled.

On Motherhood

Giving birth awakens something in women - a change of sorts in the values we keep, in what we respect and consider important. What struck me most on motherhood, without mentioning the demands and sacrifices involved (sorry - had to mention those!) is the willingness that comes when one is ‘in demand’. The energy that comes the moment labour begins, the crowning and burning, convinced your body simply won’t give passage. And then you see the miracle, slimy, puffy, blue-hued fingers, eyes that barely open - yet a mouth that opens wide. The baby needs you, relies upon you for nourishment and a sense of belonging. The amazing way in which one so small can impact on the way you feel about yourself, the way instinct takes hold – truly is incredible.

You have suddenly become so important, so beautiful in their eyes and so vital to their existence. The bullshit that once seemed to bother so much, now seems so unimportant – the small stuff, insignificant in comparison to this precious work of art.  It’s called family. Spirits bound by love - the building blocks to life. In sixteen years I have been blessed three times with the breathtaking task of giving birth. There is nothing quite like it, nothing more spectacular than seeing a child born of you and your partner – a tiny person of flesh, bones and spirit – from ourselves to become ones-self.
With breastfeeding, the bond for lifelong attachment begins.  It's an extension of the birthing experience - and one that, if possible, should never be missed.  Ever noticed how a newborn knows where to find a nipple, knows the scent of mother's milk? It's called instinct.

Creating life is a beautiful thing.  A gift. And there is nothing more delicious than nibbling on tiny toes, losing yourself in those trusting eyes, wiping the muck from a delicate nose, or massaging scented lotions into the soft creases of chubby thighs. Nothing more spectacular.