Not sure about you but I've got a way of saying 'remember that film/music/event from a couple of years back' only to realise it was actually five years ago. Tempus is indeed fugiting as the romans so wisely straplined. They also coined another phrase - carpe diem, or seize the day. For a long time now (at least a year but probably closer to ten) that's been my mantra. Getting PTSD and hitting rock bottom, losing all hope you'll ever get out of the pit of despair and mental pain you're in only to find you've been given a chance of redemption, another chance of a meaningful life after a lifetime of already amazing careers shouldn't be ignored. Each day should be grasped firmly and have its contents wrung out with barely a drop left at the bottom. That's not to say I'm out there white-water rafting, travelling in the Arctic or freefalling from 10k feet on a daily basis (I wish) but I'm grateful for each and every day. I've become very aware of the clock ticking down which in turn prompts me to do something with my day, stay mindful of the moment I'm in and spend less time looking back at a past long gone or forward to a future there's no guarantee of. So, as we start this new year I'd like to wish each and every one of you a peaceful and above all healthy 2023 and hope it's a year you make the most of the opportunities presented to you. Better still, make those opportunities happen; take risks, go left when everyone else goes right, turn off the main street and explore the hidden lanes, get up an hour earlier to see the sunrise, or just sit with only the birdsong for company with the phone off and your mind fully focused on the here and now. Oh, and take more photographs...
One of my favourite songs of all time is 'Wonderful Life' by Black. Spend a moment listening to the lyrics when you next hear it:
Look at me here
Here on my own again
Up straight in the sunshine
No need to run and hide
It's a wonderful, wonderful life
No need to laugh or cry
Written by Colin Vearncombe
Have a wonderful, wonderful 2023
Paul
I'm really pleased that you are in "a good place" both physically and mentally. And I'm looking forward to hearing about your planned activities in 2023!
All the best from a fellow ex ‘wooden top’ PTSD ‘tog’ … You inspired me to get out there, and now I make my living shooting bands, tours & festivals…All the best…Jason.
Here's wishing you a good 2023 Paul.