Mediocrity at any cost!

I find there is a trend in this modern age to devalue others accomplishments and talents. We have subscribed to this doctrine of "mediocrity and equality" to the point were there is a homogeneous mess of average. The individuals that stand out are envied and, in some cases, encouraged to conform to the norms of society so that "others" will not feel "bad".

We need to focus on finding the aspects of life that people excel at and encourage them to hone those skills to a fine edge, rather than focusing on their limitations in other areas. This change in focus will allow everyone to excel at their talents and be the best that they personally can be.

I have decided that I am going to spend some more quality time exploring a few of my talents this year, sewing and music. These are two aspects of myself that I have "let go" for various reasons but at which I excel. Hail to the fine edge of craftsmanship! I hope I can reach and attain it. :)

True Friendship

This mornings readings were centered around the concept of friendship and its role in society.

Lately I have had the pleasure of having many friends come into my life. Over the past three years my circle of friendships has grown in an increasing manner. I have always tended to be somewhat reclusive and retiring which has tended to keep myself somewhat isolated with only a handful of close friends. This has changed as I am allowing myself to be more outgoing and I am being rewarded with not just acquaintances but really good and close friends.

Many of these close friends are quite a distance away which means we can only get together, in the flesh, once or twice a year at festivals or meetings, etc., but some of these friends live in the same city and can be visited on a more regular basis. Last night, for instance, I spent a few hours in the company of amazing women, some already my friends, but some new friends, and the experience was wonderful. An inclusive circle of women friends sharing and talking together. :)

In our net driven society I think that the quality of friendship is often lost. Time seems to be spent in isolation watching television or surfing the net, the "old fashioned" past times of socializing, crafts, women's sewing circles etc. seem to have fallen out of use and this saddens me. I think that the time spent with friends away from technology is invaluable and I will make these activities a priority in my calendar.

The flower of friendship flourishes with the sunshine of love and the water of time. Let's all strive to cultivate a varied and thriving garden of friendship in our lives. :)