I went to a funeral today - personal landmark, as the last one I went to I triggered a big relapse in symptoms, whereas this one was OK - and the man who died was a neighbour of mine. He and his brother ran a workshop that superceded the blacksmith's. In the villages, the blacksmith's often turned into garages, and ours mends Formula 3 racing cars!
Anyway, the thing that struck me about both of the brothers was their helpfulness, practicality and humility. Humility may seem like a submissive trait, and it could sound condescending to describe someone like that, but I think it's a high quality to have. It means they take things lightly, don't mind themselves much and just get on with things and enjoy them. Perhaps it comes with a lack of materialism? A belief in God? - well, I know that's one of the aims of Christianity and other religions to submit to God, however people who don't believe also have it. I think people who've lived in the country all their lives may have it more often - the older generation, anyway. They aren't chasing more 'stuff', more experiences, just enjoying what they like doing.
hi jane, very handy blog! I like your runimations about humility and other saving graces...I appreciated your 'about me' and am so pleased you are a good friend of mine xx Sarah
ReplyDeleteThank you Sarah! I felt touched by your own photos and mentioning me on your blog - thank you.
ReplyDeleteJaneXX