So here we are at the end of the year. And I’m taking this last one, unsurprisingly, to reflect on a few things that I’ve learnt through this process of trying to tell a few tales about the charity, what we do and why, some things going on in the community during the year and also lessons about myself through the process of opening up. What therapists might call a cathartic awakening!
I think the first thing really is to acknowledge that I am pleased I achieved this one aim at least. The second one I set myself – increasing my personal engagement with social media – I failed miserably. Now’s not the place to reflect on that but I might do in future on a different platform. The second thing to say, although it’s not rocket science, is however old you are, you never stop learning about yourself and the world around you. The more you know: the more you realise you don’t know. Wisdom does come with age but it’s all relative as change is perpetual. I guess the important thing is to continue to be curious, embrace the unknown and challenge yourself.
We have taken on a lot this year with staffing changes, a new website, two complex new in-person events (the hustings and the AGM quiz) and multiple other challenges and successes en route. But I too also faced several personal challenges this year, only some of which I spoke about openly. I’ve learnt the hard way that it’s important to set boundaries for yourself and others: be clear what it is you want. Things will often end in anger and frustration otherwise.
I elaborated quite a bit on my personal history, sometimes too much perhaps, but have learnt that some stories are better told through alternative media, if indeed you should tell them at all. Being honest doesn’t necessarily mean telling everything to everyone all the time! I’ve also learnt that not everyone will always like you so there’s no use trying too hard. We come from different backgrounds and can only know a fraction of what others have been through so be engaged and curious but don’t assume they will necessarily get you. It’s sadly a forlorn task sometimes. We all perceive one another from our own lenses and our own experiences of life.
Another thing I’ve learnt is that within the confines of what we are allowed to do as a charity, it’s alright to express an opinion publicly sometimes. I have been hesitant in the past, but our values are what make us who we are, and as trustees it is important that people recognise what we stand for as an organisation, especially one with such a rich and interesting heritage as ours.
I’ve pontificated at length about my concerns over the seemingly never-ending conflicts which we see around the world and our leaders’ responses. There are ways and means of engaging with this. I don’t imagine for a moment that statements here make any huge difference but supporting better connections in our local community can nudge things in a better direction. I probably didn’t say enough to celebrate some of the positive things we see locally – although hopefully other pieces on this site have helped in that aim. Whilst as a charity we do review our work and regularly challenge ourselves, it is also important to celebrate our own successes.
Family and friends are an important part of all our lives, but I think this year has emphasised to me even more how significant these relationships are for all our wellbeing. Finding support in one another – and sometimes strangers – when times are tough is necessary for all of us. But perhaps most of all, learning to look out for oneself is the overriding lesson for me this year. It’s good to challenge ourselves, but our physical and mental health is everything. Knowing when to take time out – and lighten up – is critical.
The trustees have now decided to make this a monthly blog, and we will be taking it in turns in future. I have other plans for next year (at home and abroad) but will be back on here from time to time. In the meantime, thanks for reading. I hope you’ve all had a wonderful festive break and that 2025 moves us ever forward, toward a happier, kinder, more connected community. And world.