LIfe – Page 24 – neilhayeswrites

Pride of the Nation

November 5, 2016 neilhayeswritesLeave a comment

The Welsh have a great sense of national pride. As a small nation this pride does not manifest itself in international power or influence, but more in our sense of independence of spirit. We simply believe that we think and feel differently to the rest of the United Kingdom.

Commonly, national pride is expressed through sport. Wales is no different and our sport of choice is rugby. With the current tensions in the world and everyone seemingly intent on the reinforcement of borders, this particular warrior code has to be preferable to the real thing.

But, I have to say, I do get unreasonably emotionally involved while I am watching Wales play. If we are playing badly my emotions range from anger, if they are making mistakes, to a sense of emptiness, if they have no spark. If the game is on fire, so am I, and my emotions run wild. I am not alone in this, the whole nation is invested in the result of a rugby match. Everyone, from grandma and grandad to small children, don their rugby jerseys on match day.

Rugby is the Welsh religion. There is only one other country which beats us in terms of addiction and devotion, and that is New Zealand. They are, of course, by far the best team in the world and it must be a pleasure to worship at that altar. In comparison the Welsh must often suffer and sacrifice. But dragons are fierce creatures and when they breathe fire, there is no better feeling for the devout followers.

Daily Prompt: Copycat

November 1, 2016 neilhayeswritesLeave a comment

The ultimate form of being a copycat has to be the tribe. The word copycat has a very negative connotation, but being part of a tribe doesn’t have to be, it gives everyone comfort to be with their own kind. But this, of course, can be negative if it breeds racism and mistrust. Although not such a problem if it means wearing black clothes while you listen to heavy metal music.

We all need a sense of belonging, and if you don’t get it at home or school, then why not go looking for it. But you must still be an individual within your tribe. So maybe the most important thing is not to be a copycat in thought, set your own course and don’t always follow the prevailing wind.

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Daily Prompt: Transformation

October 25, 2016 neilhayeswritesLeave a comment

I am in need of a change. Whether it be transformation or just rejuvenation, something. It is too easy to become stuck in a rut. I have begun with my websites, this is the first step. A step towards more creativity in my life. Taking photographs and writing has reopened a way of thinking for me. But I would like it to be a greater part of my life.

But first I need to make other changes, get more energy, be more positive. And focus on what is important. Family first, then the rest. But the rest needs to follow. Too many of us go through the motions and just hope that change will come. I have been lucky in my life that this has sometimes happened, but it can’t be relied upon.

But it is easy to doubt yourself, because change is difficult. So the first change must be in attitude. There is no maybe, only yes I can. I will.

via Daily Prompt: Transformation

Movember

October 21, 2016 neilhayeswritesLeave a comment

It’s almost that time of year again. The time when I get off my backside and do something for other people. I always feel like I should do more to help others, and too often allow myself the excuse of being too busy.

Movember is a way for men to do something for others, in a fun way. But, of course, the idea isn’t only to grow a moustache. The idea is to raise money for charity, too many people seem to forget this part. Growing the moustache is the easy part, although my 45-year-old face does not always wish to cooperate. Raising the money is the more difficult part, it takes work. People don’t just hand over the cash, well some do. But most need a little bit of arm-twisting, especially Czech people.

I do not mean that as any slur against the Czechs. They have a natural mistrust of any organisations, be they political or charitable, and this is with good reason. The reasons are mainly historical, if you lived through communism then maybe you wouldn’t trust the political system either. But also current, people simply do not trust Czech organisations to be honest. I think they would prefer to give to a foreign charity because at least the money would be used properly, although we all know this is not always the case. But the charities associated with Movember are well-known and trustworthy, so I am certainly happy to trust them.

The world really is becoming more selfish and distrustful, and for my own peace of mind I simply refuse to adopt this mindset. My own country, the United Kingdom, is making me despair. And, goodness knows, I cannot comprehend what is going on in America; a supposedly God-fearing country. Give me strength.

So forget all the negativity. I am going to be positive and grow my weedy, fluffy moustache and raise some money. Of course, you can help too.

Donate at mobro.co/neilhayes

Daily Prompt: Urgent

October 21, 2016 neilhayeswritesLeave a comment

Everything seems so urgent these days. People spend their lives rushing hither and thither, never slowing down. Sometimes we all need to take a breath.

I need that breath now, there are simply too many things on my mind. Unless I clear that list, I will not relax. I can feel the tension in me, just breathe.

So relax, plan and do. There is no urgency, just my mind telling me there is. These are simply tasks, not what is most important.

What is most important has already been achieved, a wonderful weekend with my family. A weekend of playing, celebrating, spending time in nature and watching my kids have fun on the skating rink.

So the highest priority task has been completed, now onto the little things. I feel better already.

via Daily Prompt: Urgent