Future file

When things are really bad, I usually tell myself: 'this too shall pass'. Another mantra of mine is: 'there is no fear'. These little homilies can sometimes make the difference between overcoming or succumbing to the trials of life. At least for me.

So, the 'emotional fog' has thankfully passed. I only needed a couple of anti-nausea pills today, and for tomorrow I plan to to go to the Fair Trading Christmas Fair in Manly by ferry (and hopefully will not get seasick).

This is a Christmas bazaar type of thing, featuring products from developing countries, for which the producers are properly and fairly compensated (read not exploited by multinational corporations). I saw an interview with the Mayor of Manly, whose aim is to make all the businesses in his jurisdiction Fair Trading.

As I wrote these paragraphs, it occured to me that I don't really know what Fair Trade is, so I looked it up:

“Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, which seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers - especially in the South. Fair Trade organizations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade."

Now that we are clear on that one, let me tell you what else happened today.

After the second chemo I was pretty slack about doing my exercises and developed strange aches and pains in my right arm and breast. Last night I started doing my Qui Gong Shibashi exercises, repeated them today and also went for a walk with a friend, and I have to admit that I feel much better already. So, my diagnosis of lack of exercise was correct and I am now more motivated than ever to never stop. I've switched from the fear of obesity to the lure of feeling well. Perhaps that will be a more enduring motivation.

Another positive thing that happened today has to do with my future plans. As many of you know, before the big C struck I was toying with the idea of doing a PhD. Not long ago, I received notification that one of the universities here in Sydney is offering a PhD scholarhip in the very field I was thinking about - multiculturalism and social inclusion.

My highschool friend Rosemary P. is a noted academic in that area, and she took time out tonight to Skype with me to discuss the project. Thank you Rosemary! It was very enlightening, enlivening and invigorating. As a result, the burning issue right now is to see just how well my energy returns to allow me to prepare for my interview which will be a week from today.

So please everyone, forget for one moment the C word and send me vibes for energy and success in my application. For sure that will have curative effects as well.