December 24, 2024 by Zeal4living - 0 comments

The Only Influence That Truly Matters: My Wife (and the Occasional Grumpy Cat Meme)

Who are the biggest influences in your life?

So, they ask, “Who are the biggest influences in your life?”
Now, I’m a man of reason. I’ve dabbled in the philosophies of Rosicrucianism, wrestled with the ideas of Gurdjieff, and even dipped my toes into the esoteric world of Runemasters (don’t judge). I’ve faced down politicians, scoffed at marketers, and generally maintained a healthy skepticism of anyone trying to sway my deeply held beliefs.

But then, there’s my wife.

The look that can influence me with ease

Let’s be honest, “Happy wife, happy life” isn’t just a saying; it’s a universal truth. My wife? She can make me feel like I’m walking on sunshine with a single smile, or send me spiraling into a pit of despair with a furrowed brow. It’s terrifying, really.
Think of it this way: I can withstand the onslaught of political rhetoric, the siren song of consumerism, and even the existential dread that comes with contemplating the universe. But a single look from my wife, a quiet sigh, a muttered “Hmm…” can throw my carefully constructed worldview into chaos.

Now, before you accuse me of being whipped, let me clarify: she doesn’t influence my core beliefs. I still firmly believe in the power of critical thinking and the importance of questioning authority. But when it comes to the day-to-day, to the joy and spontaneity of life, my wife is the undisputed champion.
She’s the one who drags me out of my comfort zone, who encourages me to try new things, who reminds me to have fun. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to make their partner happy? It’s a win-win situation, if you ask me.

So, there you have it. The biggest influence in my life? Not some ancient philosopher or charismatic leader, but the woman who shares my life and makes it infinitely richer. And occasionally, a really good Grumpy Cat meme.

Disclaimer: This blog post is written with a healthy dose of humor, a touch of exaggeration and with my wife’s permission. My wife is, of course, a wonderful and independent human being who deserves all the credit in the world for being, well, herself.

I hope you enjoyed this slightly tongue-in-cheek take on a serious question!

December 21, 2024 by Zeal4living - 0 comments

Embracing the Cycle: A Solstice Reflection on Life and Gratitude

When are you most happy?

I am on my happiest now, in the stillness of the night, where the world holds its breath, my soul stirs. Awakened by the whisper of the summer solstice, it feels like a moment to unfurl unseen wings and soar. In this profound darkness, a cocoon of silence wraps around me, inviting reflection, contemplation, and integration. It is a sacred pause, the end of one year and the quiet beginning of another.

No plans guide me tonight. I sit in the vast, open stillness, free of thought’s constraints. The night cradles me, timeless and boundless, and I find myself awash in gratitude for simply being here—alive, aware, and present. Life, with all its trials and triumphs, stands before me like a canvas painted with the brushstrokes of time. The universe, in its quiet wisdom, has always carried me forward, even through the storms.

Looking back, I see a life lived with authenticity, imperfect yet deeply meaningful. Failures and mistakes were the roots of my growth, and though I stumbled, I always found my balance again. The longest stretch of my journey may be behind me, but there is no mourning here. Instead, I celebrate each year, each accomplishment, each fleeting moment of joy. Life, even in its smallest details, has been a gift—one I treasure deeply.

A flower blooms, a pedal falls, a cycle repeats

I do not fear the inevitability of death. Like a flower in its bloom, radiant and complete, there comes a time to fold back into the earth. I will not rush that moment. It will arrive on its own, gentle and unbidden. Until then, I will cling to life, not out of fear but out of love—for the next moment, for one more breath, for the wonder that lingers in the unknown.

When the time comes, I hope to meet it with peace, knowing I have lived as fully and meaningfully as I could. I will return to the Source, the Ur, knowing my life has been a song sung to its fullest note. Just as the cycle of nature turns, I, too, will yield to its rhythm. For now, my task is simple: to savor every moment left, to live with gratitude, and to embrace the beauty of existence

December 18, 2024 by Zeal4living - 0 comments

Shopping Simplified: The Essentials That Make My List Every Time

List your top 5 grocery store items.

The 5 Essentials I Always Grab at the Grocery Store

When it comes to grocery shopping, I like to keep things simple and focus on the essentials that sustain my day-to-day routine. Here are the top five items that always make it into my cart, along with why they’re so important to me.

1. Milk

Coffee is a daily ritual in my household, and we love our coffee plain—no sugar, just the comforting creaminess of milk. To make sure we never face the catastrophe of a coffee-less morning, we stock up on milk religiously. It’s not just for coffee, though; milk often finds its way into cooking or a late-night glass for a quick protein fix.

2. Bottled Water

Hydration is non-negotiable, and since I can’t always rely on the tap water, bottled water is a must. We go through a lot of it, so this is always on the top of the list. Staying hydrated isn’t just about drinking enough; it’s about ensuring the quality of what you drink, which is why this is a no-brainer for me.

3. Bread (in Various Forms)

Bread is the ultimate staple. Whether it’s a soft loaf for sandwiches, crusty rolls for dinner, or even pita for dipping, bread is always versatile. It can be a meal on its own or the perfect companion to soups, spreads, and everything in between. It’s comforting and filling, making it an essential item I always reach for.

4. Energy Drink

Some days call for an extra kick of energy, and an energy drink is my go-to for those moments. Whether I’m tackling a busy day or need a mid-afternoon boost, it’s my reliable pick-me-up. It’s not an everyday indulgence, but when I need it, it’s there.

5. Eggs

Adding eggs to the list feels like the natural complement to the other four essentials. Eggs are the ultimate multi-tasker in the kitchen: they’re packed with protein, quick to prepare, and incredibly versatile. From a simple scrambled egg breakfast to adding richness in baking or acting as a binding agent in recipes, eggs tie everything together. They’re also cost-effective and long-lasting in the fridge, making them a practical choice.

Wrapping It Up

These five items—milk, bottled water, bread, energy drinks, and eggs—are the backbone of my grocery list. They reflect a balance of practicality, convenience, and nourishment, ensuring that my household stays fueled, hydrated, and ready for whatever the day brings. ….ok, ok…sometimes I slip in a chocolate as well to spoil myself when I deserved it. What are your grocery essentials? Let me know in the comments!

December 7, 2024 by Zeal4living - 1 Comment

A Year of Growth, Family, and Meaningful Moments: My 2024 Journey

What positive events have taken place in your life over the past year?

As I look back on 2024, I’m struck by the rich vista of experiences that have woven together to create a year of profound personal growth, family connections, and unexpected adventures. This year has been a beautiful blend of professional achievements, spiritual exploration, and cherished moments with loved ones.

Family: The Heartbeat of My Year

Family has been the constant rhythm underlying every significant moment of 2024. From the very start, we kicked off the year at our beloved beach house in the southernmost point of Africa, setting a tone of togetherness and relaxation. Throughout the year, I treasured numerous precious moments: celebrating birthdays with my children and grandchildren, sharing coffee catch-ups, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
A particularly touching highlight was welcoming our kitten Shiva in June, bringing warmth and cuddles into our home during the middle of winter. Watching my grandchildren explore the world – whether at the World of Birds with monkeys climbing about, attending a first netball day, or sharing art experiences like introducing my granddaughter to watercolors – filled my heart with joy and wonder.

Professional and Personal Growth

This year presented remarkable opportunities for professional and personal development. In April, I was privileged to contribute to an international forum in Brazil developing guidelines for Artificial Intelligence implementation. This experience was not just professional but deeply personal, allowing me to explore spiritual and religious spaces in a new country.
Back home, I continued to engage with technology and governance, participating in fascinating meetings like the IT forum for provincial legislators and an intriguing AI roundtable discussion.
Our national elections resulted in a historic shift in our national political landscape, resulting in a Government of National Unity, was a moment of significant reflection and hope.

Spiritual and Personal Exploration

2024 was also a year of deep spiritual growth and scholarly pursuit in the realm of runic traditions. A significant milestone was the publication of FUTHORKH, the first journal of the Knights of Runes. In March, I was thrilled to receive this inaugural edition, which featured several of my own contributions. These included a comprehensive write-up on the purpose of the Knights of Runes, a profound reinterpretation of the first 80 verses of the Havamal, and an original rune poem that reflected my deep connection to these ancient symbolic traditions.
My spiritual journey continued to unfold with various meaningful experiences. I marked a significant personal milestone by getting a tattoo of an Armanen rune row encircling a dragon, symbolizing my initiation into Norse mysteries. My Rosicrucian journey continued with meaningful experiences, including presenting a meditation presentation at the Cape Town Pronaos conclave.
In October, I added to my scholarly collection by acquiring Gorsleben’s Edda, a treasured text that further deepened my exploration of runic wisdom and Norse spiritual traditions. This book represents more than just a purchase – it’s a gateway to deeper understanding and continued spiritual growth.
I made deliberate efforts to connect with myself and nature. A day of solitary meditation at the Meulwater botanical gardens and an art project focusing on the four elements were powerful moments of self-discovery and introspection.

Adventures and Family Trips

Our road trips and outings were filled with excitement and discovery. A memorable two-week, 3000+ km journey to visit my mother was a highlight. Driving the 4×4 Gladiator route, enjoying a safari in Pilanesberg National Park, and spending time with my sisters created lasting memories.

Moments of Joy and Anticipation

The year was punctuated by moments of pure joy – like the exciting news of my stepson and his wife’s pregnancy, and the anticipation of a gender reveal in December. Family celebrations at restaurants, beach house retreats, and our first camping trip in years at Vloedbos resort were simple yet profound moments of connection.

Reflection

As I write this, looking forward to ending the year at our cherished Cape Agulhas beach house, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. 2024 has been a testament to the beauty of family, the excitement of personal growth, and the joy of unexpected adventures.
Every challenge was balanced by moments of beauty, every professional engagement complemented by deep personal connections. It’s been a year of living fully, loving deeply, and embracing every experience with an open heart.

December 6, 2024 by Zeal4living - 0 comments

City Life and Wild Encounters: From House Cat to Safari Adventures

Do you ever see wild animals?

Living in the city means wild animals are mostly a distant dream – except for my ever-present feline companion. She doesn’t just think she’s wild; she *is* a wild beast, perpetually ready to ambush my unsuspecting hand with the ferocity of a jungle predator. She’d probably scoff at being called a pet, and I suspect “owner” is a term she finds laughably presumptuous.

But my real taste of wilderness came from living in South Africa, particularly a recent trip to Pilanesberg National Park. What a day of breathtaking encounters! Our incredibly knowledgeable guide led us through a landscape teeming with life – from the majestic to the minute.

Lions lounged regally, elephants moved with quiet dignity, and hippopotamuses and buffalo commanded respect with their sheer presence. A baboon near the park’s restaurant treated us to a memorable teeth-baring display – a not-so-subtle reminder that we were guests in *their* territory. Elegant kudus and elands grazed peacefully, while smaller creatures darted about, showcasing nature’s incredible diversity.

The guide’s insights were fascinating. Did you know the difference between white and black rhinos? Or the critical importance of elephant social structures? He shared a remarkable story about young bull elephants introduced to the park without elder guidance. These inexperienced youngsters, lacking proper social education, were so confused they attempted to mount rhinos, risking serious injury. Who would have thought animal behavior is so nuanced that even mounting techniques must be *learned*?

Pilanesberg itself is a conservation triumph. The park represents a remarkable success story of reclaiming land and reintroducing species that had previously gone extinct in the area. Walking away, I was struck by the delicate balance of ecosystems and humanity’s potential to restore and protect.

And now, as I finish writing, a familiar furry face demands attention. My domestic “wild beast” reminds me that wilderness comes in all sizes – from sprawling national parks to the predatory pounce of a house cat.