It's a Classical Life

Schopenhauer said, "A constant flow of thoughts expressed by other people can staunch and deaden your own thoughts and your initiative." Do you ever feel that way? That the compelling words available to us now, 24/7 are often taking over our own thoughts and initiatives? There is so much information available to us now that we must grow in our ability to be discerning and critical thinkers.  Instead of stopping reading (or listening) altogether, I highly recommend demonstrating a level of discernment when it comes to choosing which information to allow into your mind. Are you focusing on the words of a classicist that still ring true today or are the words the long-winded ramblings of someone who speaks without thinking? As we all know, there are many people online who are more than happy to share their opinions and ideas, and what we take on as our own ideas requires a high level of discernment and critical thinking before appropriation. Sometimes we can get caught up with ...

  Last week I resigned from my teaching job. I didn't just resign from this particular job, I resigned from teaching altogether. It was a decision that I have been toying with for over two years, and the timing felt right. I will see out the year, until Christmas, and then I will be starting a whole new chapter in my life in 2023. The truth is, I am excited about not knowing what lies in ahead. I know it's a very risky time to be leaving a steady job with a good income, but I feel - after much discernment - that this is the right thing for me.  You may be wondering how this week's quote by Tolstoy aligns with my thoughts above. I'd like to explain. When I began teaching, I had that noble hope to "light candles" and "illuminate the hearts" of my students. I had a passion in me to share what I knew about History and Languages - a passion that had been placed there by other, amazing teachers. However, recently I have been losing that passion to pass on ...

It has been a while since we have had some Tolstoy inspiration, so I thought this quote from my copy of Tolstoy's Book of Wisdom seemed particularly pertinent. Peace is a fundamental component of a good life, any good life, and Tolstoy's formula for achieving peace is one worth contemplating. By including humility in this definition, we are going against the grain of common belief (again) which claims that we should be ready to defend our views and attack those who don't agree with us. This may work for you in standing up for your convictions, but does it bring you peace? The last few weeks have been rather hectic around here, but this morning I rose early, had my tea, and did some meditation. It has been a long time since I meditated and I can still feel the peace and calm that it has brought me on this cold, wintery morning. I hope that you are all well and that you find some peace in your lives today. 

  Today is Valentine's Day, but instead of focusing on the romantic, commercial aspect of it, I thought it would be nice to simply reflect on the power of true love, of any kind.  These words by Leo Tolstoy exude joy and hope. They remind us that being loved is a blessing and we should never give up on the power of love. Love should make us calm and at peace, but it also requires courage and fearlessness. This isn't just necessary for romantic love, but for the love we feel for our family, our friends, our colleagues, our neighbours. Love in all its form is such an integral part of our inner peace, our purpose here and Tolstoy highlights that perfectly with this quote.  I hope that whoever you love today, and everyday, feels the blessing of your love.  Kirsty xo

  The last few weeks for me have been incredibly busy as we are preparing to come out of lockdown and return to regular in-school teaching. Getting my own children ready as well as myself and my classes, has been no small chore. It has taken up a lot more time than my allocated "part-time" status suggests. I don't mean to complain, simply state a fact why my posts here have been a bit sporadic (I missed one completely last week!). In amidst all of this busy-ness, one quote kept coming to my mind. Each morning as part of my morning ritual, I read. I often read something spiritual whether that be the Bible or some other spiritual reflections. Part of my reading routine has been Leo Tolstoy's "A Calendar of Wisdom." I have loved this book. Here's what Tolstoy himself says about the book in a letter dated 16 May 1908 to his friend Gusev: "I cannot understand how some people can live without the Calendar. What could be more precious and important than co...