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Reflections of 2024

Writer's picture: David CloustonDavid Clouston



I am grateful for 2024.


Some of the things I learnt about myself and the world are:



Courage

I found courage at times and could act on it. For example, I decided to invite a distant friend to my birthday which I was nervous about. I thought it might not work out, but on the night all was well.


Patience

Sometimes I could be patient with people, and when I was, things worked out well. If I was impatient and acted out of my own anger it usually turned out worse.





Seeing myself

A trip to a beautiful meditation retreat in South Korea reset my mind and helped me see myself. I could see my pride and ego a bit more clearly. I could confront my situation. For example, when my ego had come up between myself and a co-worker, I could see my ego getting in the way of our relationship. Having mercy in that situation allowed me to get along with the person I was working with and complete a project.



My work team end-of-year lunch
My work team end-of-year lunch


Listening

Although this is a work in progress, when I listen to other people's suggestions and act on them, often there is great benefit. For example, someone I know suggested ways in which my house could be fixed. I took his advice and involved my landlord, and to my surprise the landlord fixed the things in the house.


I did also make mistakes and some things didn't work out as I thought. When I imposed my will on others, things never seemed to work out - even though I thought it would.


Things I am proud of this year:


  • Half marathon

  • Becoming a Full Member of the New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI)

  • Organizing a BBQ and Birthday with friends

  • Hiking trip with family

  • So much love within 

  • Grateful for every moment


Thanks to meditation I found courage to enjoy these things. 🙏





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