As you are aware I love walking and was out yesterday evening on The Malvern Hills which I find to be a very special place. It is here the Sir Edward Elgar is said to have gained inspiration for many of the enigmatic pieces of music he composed. As I was getting into my stride I came across these glorious bluebells. They are such a wonderful flower that sadly only last for a short time. Mostly, they grow under the shade of trees as you can see here. It reminded me that in the UK we are well into the spring season – with all of the wonderful new colours and long days that are part and parcel of this time of year. The colour of these flowers is so rich, and with so many flowers packed into such an area it is alwas a special sight.
The picture conveys some of what I saw, the smell is impossible to replicate – in the early evening it is a heavy perfume that hangs under the trees, just so fragrant. I stopped to take the picture, and I also wanted to stand and breathe in this special sent of nature too. By stopping and standing I also heard the birds chattering away. Already making their nests ready for the new chicks that will all to soon bring the start of summer.
As I stood there it made me question how often I stop and consider what is happening around me – and importantly using all of my senses. People ask us ‘does that make sense?’ – how often do we use all of our senses when we answer? We usually fire back an answer ready to move on.
So:
- Would it be valuable to stop once in a while and use more of our senses when we are considering that decision?
- Perhaps – are we too busy rushing to stop…..and then miss something that could have been important?
- Some things, like the bluebells, don’t stay around for long. Are we finding the time to enjoy them?
Well, perhaps Elgar was onto something – perhaps that is why these wonderful hills keep calling me back – perhaps that is why I have found the time to write this article!
My best wishes.
Peter
