I often connect with the spiritual meanings of many different animals. Indeed there a couple who have been constant throughout, but others come into my life at different times and I mention them in other stories.
Recently I had cause to look at the connection meaning of the gazelle (antelope) in relation to myself and ageing - and another season of life.
In spiritual symbolism, a gazelle (antelope) reference includes consciousness, swiftness, elegance, beauty, and liveliness and managing unexpected changes which can be positive. It is ultimately about relaxing into being ourselves, and finding ways to feel safe without hiding. Feeling ok to belong.
Interestingly, this correlates with me because I spent decades 'hiding my true self' because I was unconsciously trying to keep myself safe. I acknowledge that it's been a hard journey to come to this point.
And now I am in this semi-retirement season of my life, and I feel an inner freedom that I never had before. Not even ten years ago. This year has been one of big changes - again. But on a day to day basis, I now have some freedom to decide what I wish to do with my day (apart from responsibilities or appointments of course). It is in interesting time to ponder. My body has aged and I have to accept and care for it gently. The body is the the home of the soul, and the spirit is the divine ignition in the soul - like a flame.
Only recently during my walks where I often reflect in prayer, I have realised that what triggered my changing to semi-retirement was burnout. I could no longer do what I felt I 'had to' anymore, nor do what is expected of me by others. I acknowledged the exhaustion and the promptings by my inner spirit to let go of the need to live up to what others might perceive or expect me to be. It is more important to be at peace with myself.
I choose to accept myself and relax into that part of me - being happy with each day, no matter how simple they may be. In order to age gracefully, it is important for me to recognise the seasons of life and find ways to navigate, even if they are different to what I anticipated, but still find a way to work a little in ways that I love, balancing responsibilities but finding a creative way to encourage others. This can be done gently.
There is also a sense of another loss, coupled with a sense of relief. The knowledge that you really cannot go back in time. And that time passes swiftly and having to accept the changes in one's body and lifestyle. But finding ways to be accepting of oneself and new habits. For some people it may mean moving to a new area, for others it might be making repairs to their home and staying put, and for some it is even embarking on adventures or new callings or learnings. Every person is different, depending on their health and financial situation. Contrary to what the media appears to suggest, most people in this season of life are not well off, despite the media assertions. They just do the best that they can.
But each day there is a choice - a choice to be grateful with what we have now and find joy in little moments throughout the day. For me, I find joy presents through nature to me. Noticing butterflies fluttering amongst the flowers, or dragonflies dancing together over the pond. Or the magical moments with the moon and the stars. Always choosing to look for, and notice the wonder. This inspires creativity and peace within.
May peace and wonder be with you. - Karen Curran