Compassion, Autumn 2021

Autumn 2021 - Compassion | www.tcf.org.uk 17 So it exits? “Yeah, totally. It is quiet, and it’s calm and...” Peaceful? “Yes, that’s it, peaceful. That’s probably where it gets it’s name.” Very funny James. So, I want to find it. “Ok, what’s stopping you?” I don’t know. After 7 years on this planet I find it difficult to believe that there is such a place. I mean, people told me about it when I got here but it didn’t seem likely to me. I thought people were having me on; placating me so that I could settle. But for some time now, I am finding myself more willing to accept it as a possibility. I feel closer to it but I think it’s a long road, a really difficult place to get to and I might get lost. “Ok, let’s deal with those things one step at a time (pun absolutely intended). Do you want to get to Peace?” Yes. “Are you prepared to do the work?” Well yes, I told you already. I’m in training. “Oh yeah. You did. Although you and training don’t exactly go together mum?” I can do mental training though. I can do that anywhere. Is that any good? “For this journey, yes, It’s the best type of good. That’s a brilliant start. Right. Next. Do you believe that you can get there?” Maybe. “Ok. Not a ‘no’. We’re winning so far. Next. It takes time to get there. So? Do you have a time limit?” Well no. I guess I have the rest of my life. “There you go! That’s the spirit. (Again. Pun intended) Next. Is it worth spending that long looking for this place?” I guess so, if it is what I think it is. It’s not like I’ve got anywhere else to go is it? And if I can get there I can make my way to the quiet place the… what did you call it? The calm zone? “Close enough. So that deals with that. Next problem. It’s a hard journey. Yes. It is. So? Put in the work and it will be worth it. Do we have anymore problems?” I might get lost? “Oh yeah. I was forgetting about your non- existent sense of direction. So that hasn’t improved any in the last 7 years then?” No son. I still get lost coming out of the kitchen. “Ok, well then, you’ll just have to do what everyone else does mum. Ask for directions, or set the sat nav to “Peace” and off we go. There are other people going there too you know. Follow them. It’s not a solo trip. And if you take a wrong turn, stop, regroup and turn back. Uncertainty is not a reason not to try.” You make it sound so easy son. “No I don’t mum. It isn’t easy. I just agreed that it was a hard journey if you listen! But I’m saying that it’s possible. Possible and Easy should not be mistaken. Now, if you want to be in Peace, find the road, be unafraid and get walking. Oh no. I forgot. You and walking. Ok, get driving. Do whatever it takes and be patient. Oh no. I forgot. You and patience. Yeah this is going to be a challenge.” How long till we’re there James? “Oh no….. Are you going to moan for the whole journey?” Probably. “As I said, this is going to be a challenge.” Maria Ahern