Reflections are useful things. For my daughters they are a must – everytime they pass a mirror! When I teach singing I often say to students that the best teacher they will ever have will be their own reflection in a mirror.
A definition of the verb ‘to reflect’ is to ‘throw back something (such as light, heat or sound) without absorbing it’. Yet, when we reflect upon ourselves it is usually because we want to look back and learn something from the past and perhaps even absorb a little of what we experienced.
This morning I was thinking about my website and how I have not posted anything on it since 2022. There are so many reasons for this. Some good. Some so absolutely awful that I don’t even want to think about them. Nevertheless, reflecting back, I know that I have changed in many ways since 2022. I see things differently now and I see changes in myself and others around me. My own physical reflection has also definitely changed! So I embrace all these changes. I can now see how some things are better than in 2022. I can also see that some things are perhaps a little easier, greyer or even more challenging. However, all of these changes have been valuable to me. Even my grey hair when getting senior discounts!
In 2020 I chose the name ‘Voxfulgentis’ for this website because I wanted it to reflect the ‘light’ that people give out through their musical voices, their kind deeds and/or their words. When I reflect on those who have helped me, and at times sat with me as I have felt emotional or even physical pain I think about how they have lifted me through their kindness in the last 4 years. The choirs I take have been a big part of all this. They have given me friendships and experiences that continue to carry me through. Thank you to those whose voices continue to ‘shine’.
As the days grow longer again, I hope that we can all find time to reflect on the good things that continue to happen around us.