BLOOM WHERE YOU'RE PLANTED.

That was the thought for the day from a book called 'Focus Your Day' which Kevin gave me in 1996. It was written by Kenneth E. Grabner who spent time as a Trappist monk. I love this book and even though there are 365 entries - one for each day - and I have been digging in and out of it for many years, as the well thumbed pages convey, it still never fails to thrill me, and like freshly squeezed orange juice - it hits the spot!

The timing of today's message was close to the bone, especially since I'm just back from Ireland, a place I still refer to as 'home'. Correction - Canada is my home now! I am neither Irish or Canadian. I'm an 'International citizen'. On November 15th next d.v. it will be 20 years to the day since Kevin and I arrived on Canadian soil.

Ireland is my spiritual home, and always will be. It made me who I am today.  All the earthiness, family values, love of music and sense of humour that only Irish folk understand, without being offended. Canada on the other hand has provided a safe haven, free from the worries of  recession, unemployment and pressure of living, caused by far too much stress. In other words a soft cushion from the falls of life. I like the comfort, and the freedom to be myself which it affords me. People take me as they find me, not by family connection, as they know nothing about my background. Thank you my lovely Canada for your just ways, and quiet acceptance of all ethnic egos! As the bacon ad goes 'I ham what I ham' and Canada you make me feel delicious.

I look back in awe at the many fascinating people I have met over the years from working in the psychiatric practice with Kevin. Something I would not have been able to do in Ireland. Canada allowed me stay home with my little girls, and work from home when they were little. As soon as they started school, I went into the office, again something I would not have been able to do in Ireland, because of the cruel economy. Canada take a bow! 

My life here is not perfect - but no place is. It has its good points to be sure, and these are always very much in evidence when I return to Canada. I remember years ago meeting a charming Irish girl at the Toronto airport. She told me she loves going home to Ireland to 'fill my tank' and indeed a Dutch woman I met said the same, but they both finished the sentence with "I'm always glad to be back in Canada. The living is easier here". Ditto!

So whether you're from Timbucktoo, Ballygobackwards, Paris, London or Rome, and you find yourself on foreign soil - The message of the day is 'Bloom where you're planted at this moment in time' cause if our hearts are truly caring hearts, we can do good wherever we happen to be! And enjoy the process. The other man's grass is not always greener, the sun does not shine brighter on the other side, and one last cliche for the road...before  you throw me out! - 'Happiness is not a geographical solution' - YOU are the solution!

Love ya lotz!

Polly Hugs,

Patricia xxx