OUR lives today move at a very fast pace, not only physically but mentally and emotionally. When do we give ourselves time to relax and switch off? In an ever-increasing digital world, communications with friends, relatives and neighbours rely on texts, Facebook, emails. Spoken and hand written contacts seem to be a thing of the past, but for some people these methods are still very important and they can feel isolated as a result. A hand written card or letter, face to face conversation or telephone call demonstrates that thought and care has gone into the communication. The feeling of loneliness affects our well-being and mental health. However, sometimes we choose to be alone and seek solitude, which can give a feeling of empowerment and joy. It gives us an opportunity to reconnect with ourselves, to problem solve, free ourselves up to creativity and spirituality, see the beauty in our environment, the sights, colours, smells and the silence; to recharge our batteries. Since moving to Grange-over-Sands a year ago, we are surrounded by ever-changing beauty, come rain or shine. There are so many opportunities to be involved in the community and to support events bringing people together. Appreciate what you have, share a kind word or smile with a neighbour or passing stranger. Abdu’l-Baha says, "Never lose thy trust in God. Be thou for ever hopeful, for the bounties of God never cease to flow upon man. Man is under all conditions immersed in a sea of God’s blessings."

Janet Tabarandak, Grange-over-Sands Baha’i Community