Home Sweet Home - Sir Peter of Gabriel

It’s only when you are away that you realise what you're missing...

Life has a strange way of teaching us lessons. Often, we take the people, places, and home comforts for granted until they’re gone. The Yellow Taxi song lyrics, ‘You don’t know what you you’ve got ‘til it’s gone’, ring so true, yet it’s only when we find ourselves distanced, whether physically or emotionally, that we truly grasp the significance of what’s been left behind. Whether it’s the warmth of home, the presence of loved ones, or even the smallest insignificant routine of daily life, being away it often brings true clarity to what really matters.

Home sweet home…

Home is more than just a physical place, it is a feeling of belonging, of security, and of familiarity. People grow up dreaming of leaving home, eager to explore the world and seek new experiences. However, the moment their new life begins, it’s then they realise what they’ve left behind.

The smell of home-cooking, the comfort of one’s own bed, and the simple, everyday interactions with family members suddenly become most precious. There’s a certain kind of warmth in hearing the familiar sounds of home - the ticking clock in the living room, the laughter of siblings, or even the nagging of parents. When you’re away, whether for work, study, or travel, these seemingly mundane aspects of home life take on a very sentimental value.

For many who move abroad, homesickness becomes a constant companion. Even cultural aspects such as food, language, or traditions begin to feel more significant. Being absent makes the longing thoughts grow louder, and in that longing, one then understands the irreplaceable concept of being at home.

The value of relationships…

Distance has a way of revealing the true importance of relationships. When we’re surrounded by family and friends, we often assume they will always be there. We may take their presence for granted, failing to appreciate their support, love, and companionship. However, when we’re separated, whether by geography, circumstances, or even personal differences, it becomes painfully clear just how much they mean to us.

Long-distance relationships are a real test of the strength of love and commitment between people. Couples who find themselves in different cities or countries quickly realise how much they miss the daily conversations, the shared laughter, or the simple act of holding hands. The absence of physical closeness amplifies emotions, making people treasure even the briefest moments of connection, whether through a phone calls or messages.

Friendships, too, undergo a transformation with distance. The friends we saw every day at school or work may now only exist online. Here we begin to understand that friendships are not just about having fun together but also about the comfort and support they provide.

Family relationships often gain deeper meaning with distance. Many people realise how much their parents sacrificed for them only after moving away.

The loss of routine and familiarity…

Routine is often seen as being mundane, something to break free from. Yet, when we step away from our usual patterns of life, we start to miss their comforting predictability. A morning coffee from the cafe on the corner, the familiar commute to work, the faces we see every day - these small routines shape our sense of stability.

When we move to a new place, everything feels unfamiliar. The streets are different, the language may be new, and even the way people interact can be a cultural shock. Whilst exciting at first, this unfamiliarity can also be disorienting. The simple ease of knowing where to go, who to turn to, and how things work becomes something we yearn for.

For students away at university or employees relocating for work, adapting to a new environment can be challenging. They often find themselves reminiscing about the very things they once found boring - family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even the predictability of their hometown. Then the realisation dawns that routine was not just routine, and it was a part one’s identity and comfort.

The impact of absence on self-discovery…

Being away doesn’t only make us miss things - it also helps us discover more about ourselves. The distance provides a unique opportunity for reflection and self-awareness. When removed from our usual surroundings, we gain a fresh perspective on what truly matters.

Many people, after spending time away, return with a renewed appreciation of their roots. They may find themselves more connected to their cultural identity, traditions, and values. Others may realise that while they missed home, they also grew in ways they never expected. Being away forces people to become independent, make decisions on their own, and navigate life without the safety net of familiarity.

At the same time, distance can reveal what we no longer need. Some people realise that certain friendships were superficial, or that the life they left behind was not as fulfilling as they once thought. People can let go of the past and embrace new possibilities.

The inevitable changes and their emotional impact…

Another painful truth about being away is that things change, and not always in ways we expect. When we return home after a long time, we often find that the people and places we missed have evolved. Friends have moved on, family members have grown older, and familiar places may no longer exist. The realisation that life continues on without us can be heartbreaking.

Finding a balance between nostalgia and growth…

Missing something or someone is a natural part of being away, but it’s important to find a balance between cherishing the past and embracing the present. While longing for home, relationships, and routine is inevitable, it should not prevent us from appreciating where we are now. Growth often comes from stepping out of our comfort zones, and even though it comes with its challenges, it also brings new experiences, lessons, and perspectives.

Onwards thoughts…

Being away from home, loved ones, and familiar surroundings often brings a deep sense of realisation of what truly matters. It teaches us to value the things we once took for granted. However, this absence also provides an opportunity for self-discovery, growth, and new experiences.

And while missing something or someone is inevitable, it should serve as a reminder to appreciate what we have, whilst we have it. Life is constantly changing, and sometimes, it’s only through distance that we gain the perspective needed to cherish the moments, relationships, and places that shape us. 

Amen...

1,209 Marathons - 288 Ultras - 17 MDS - 9 GWR - 1 Home Sweet Home

Maximum Joy - Frankie Goes to Hollywood

Living life to the full by embracing every moment...

As I head further on into my sixties, I’m finding myself cramming as much life as I can into every twenty-four-hour period. Sometimes twenty-four hours just isn’t enough! And, if my world was to end today or in the very near future, would I be able to say that I’d had good value for money and made the most of my time on this planet of ours, or would I be disappointed at the people and opportunities that have slipped through my fingers over the years.

I’m sure we all have regrets and if there was an opportunity to rewrite the record books, well we might but then we wouldn’t be where we are today I suppose…

You see, life is a fleeting gift, a limited time for us to experience, learn, grow, and leave an impact on the world around us. The phrase ‘living life to the full’ comes to mind, but what does it truly mean?

Is it about adventure and travel, or does it go deeper, touching on our relationships, personal growth, and inner peace? To live life to the full is to embrace each moment with purpose and gratitude. It requires us to step out of our comfort zones, cultivate meaningful relationships, and find joy in both the ordinary and the extraordinary - but how do we go about getting the best bang for our buck?

Embrace the present…

One of my key lessons is learning to stay in the present. In a world dominated by distraction, technology and social media, it’s easy to get caught up in the past or worry about the future. However, life truly only happens in the present. Mindfulness is the practice of fully engaging with the here and now and it involves appreciating small, seemingly insignificant experiences. It could just be the warmth of the sun on your face, the sound of laughter, or the taste of a delicious meal. It’s a moment in time to savour.

When we are present, we become more attuned to life’s beauty. We stop rushing our days and instead savour them. Living fully means not postponing happiness until some distant goal is achieved but finding it in the moments we have today. 

Leaving the comfort zones behind...

Comfort zones are safe, familiar, and predictable. While they provide a sense of security, they also limit excitement. But by embracing discomfort from time to time, taking risks, trying new things, and pushing personal boundaries, comfort zones can become dots in the rear-view mirror of life. It could be as simple as learning a new hobby, traveling to an unfamiliar destination, or speaking up in a situation where you might normally stay silent that helps you escape.

Progress happens when we step into the unknown. However the fear of failure can hold us back, but here failure itself isn’t the enemy, stagnation is. Every time we try something new, we learn more about ourselves and the world. Adventure, curiosity, and courage are fundamental to living a vibrant life.

Cultivating gratitude...

Gratitude is the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. When we focus on what we’d rather have than what we lack, we shift our mindset to one of abundance. Being able to recognize and appreciate the blessings in life, our relationships, health and opportunities helps us grow.

A daily practice of gratitude, whether through journaling or simply pausing to reflect, can transform our vision. When we are grateful, we become more content and less driven by external validation or material possessions. Gratitude grounds us and reminds us that life is rich with meaning.

Building meaningful relationships...

Relationships bring joy, support, and a sense of belonging. By investing in the people who matter to us the most - family, friends, and even the communities we are part of, create deep and authentic relationships.

In our fast-paced, digital world, it’s easy to mistake online interactions for genuine connection. While technology can bridge distances, it cannot replace face-to-face moments of laughter, shared experiences, and heartfelt conversations. 

Additionally, surrounding ourselves with positive individuals can inspire us to live more fully. The people we spend time with influence our mindset, so seeking relationships that uplift, challenge, and support us can be transformative.

Pursuing passions and purpose...

Passion brings energy and excitement into our daily lives. For some, it may be a creative pursuit like painting, writing, or music. For others, it might be a cause they deeply care about, such as environmental conservation or helping others.

When we find purpose, whether through our work, voluntary  efforts, or personal projects, we feel a sense of fulfilment and meaning. Purpose often involves serving others and a determination to leave a positive impact on the world.

It's important to note that passion and purpose are not always grand declarations. They can be found in simple acts such as listening to a friend or caring for a family member. What matters is the sense of alignment with our core values and the genuine joy that these activities bring.

Practicing self-compassion and resilience...

Life is not without challenges. Living fully does not mean avoiding difficulties but learning to navigate them with resilience and self-compassion. Hardships might be opportunities for growth if we approach them with the right mindset.

Self-compassion involves treating ourselves with the same kindness and understanding that we would offer a friend. It means acknowledging our imperfections without harsh self-criticism. Resilience, meanwhile, is the ability to adapt and bounce back from adversity. Developing these qualities helps us face life’s inevitable ups and downs with grace.

Moreover, when we embrace life’s challenges as part of the full human experience, we learn to appreciate the good moments even more. The contrasts between joy and sorrow, success and failure, make life richer and far more meaningful.

Finding joy in simplicity...

Modern society often equates a full life with external success. Mostly in wealth, fame, or possessions. However, genuine fulfilment often comes from within. By slowing down and savouring the simple pleasures, we reconnect with what truly matters. Minimalism, mindfulness, and a focus on experiences rather than possessions can help cultivate a far more satisfying lifestyle.

Giving back and contributing to others...

A life lived solely for oneself can feel hollow, I know. Contribution, on the other hand, brings a sense of purpose and connection. Acts of kindness, whether big or small, have a ripple effect, positively impacting others while enriching our own lives.

Volunteering, mentoring, or simply just being there for someone in need breeds a sense of community. The joy of giving often surpasses the joy of receiving and knowing that we’ve made a difference can be one of the most rewarding aspects of life.

Embracing change and letting go of fear...

Change is inevitable, yet many people resist it due to fear of the unknown. However, life is a continuous process of change and evolution. To live fully, we must learn to embrace change rather than fear it.

Letting go of fear involves recognising that uncertainty is part of the adventure of life. When we release our grip on the need for control, we open ourselves up to new possibilities. Change often brings growth, new perspectives, and unexpected opportunities.

Living authentically...

Living authentically means being true to ourselves, our values, dreams, and unique qualities. When we try to conform to societal expectations or live for others approval, we lose touch with who we are.

Authentic living involves self-awareness and the courage to follow our own path. It means honouring our passions, speaking our truth, and pursuing what truly matters to us. When we live authentically, we experience a deeper sense of fulfilment because we are aligned with our inner selves.

Thoughts…

Living life to the full is a dynamic and deeply personal journey. It’s about embracing the present, stepping outside of comfort zones, cultivating gratitude, and building meaningful relationships. It requires us to pursue passions, practice self-compassion, find joy in simplicity, and give back to others. Above all, it calls for authenticity and the willingness to embrace change with courage.

Life is a finite gift, and every day offers an opportunity to live more fully. By adopting these principles, we can create a life rich with experiences, connections, and purpose. 

And when you live life to the full, you’ll know the answer.

1,209 Marathons - 288 Ultras - 9 GWR - 17 MDS - 1 Life Fulfilled