A Warrior of Light often loses heart.
He believes that nothing can stir him in the emotion he so desired. He is forced to spend many evenings and nights feeling that he is one of the vanquished, and nothing seems able to restore his enthusiasm.
His friends [and himself sometimes] say ‘Perhaps his fight is over.
The warrior feels pain and confusion when he hears[/feels] such remarks because he knows that he has not yet reached the place he wanted to reach. But he is stubborn and refuses to relinquish his aims.
Then, when he least expects it, a new door opens.
Showing posts with label The Manual of the Warrior of Light. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Manual of the Warrior of Light. Show all posts
Sunday, June 30, 2019
A Warrior of Light often loses Heart ..
Sunday, August 3, 2014
On Lost Inspiration and Purpose - The Manual of the Warrior of Light
Following on from yesterday's post (*), Paulo Coelho (*) writes on lost Inspiration (*) and Purpose (*):
One day, for no apparent reason, the warrior realises that he does not feel the same enthusiasm for the fight that he used to.via The Manual of the Warrior of Light (*) by Paulo Coelho (*).
He continues to do what he has always done, but every gesture seems meaningless. At such a time, he has only one choice: to continue fighting the Good Fight. He says his prayers out of duty or fear or whatever, but he does not abandon the path.
He knows that the angel of the One who inspires him has simply wandered off somewhere. The warrior keeps his attention focused on the battle and he perseveres, even when everything seems utterly pointless. The angel will soon return and the merest flutter of her wings will restore the warrior's joy to him.
I posted this passage back in Aug 2010 (*), while struggling with Jenny's loss. I think of it often and I guess that is why yesterday's post (*) seemed so important. I just thought I would repost it (*) again as my Angel did flutter her wings and my joys of paddling and life did return. Maybe it started here (*)?
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Learning to be a little more Certain of the Uncertain - Well Maybe?
I did not find the Loch Ness Monster,
but I did find this amazing piece of rusted iron.
I have a been a little stuck on this post. Whenever this happens I look to the Manual of the Warrior of Light (*) by Paulo Coelho (*) and found this ..
A warrior knows that the ends do not justify the means.This is my 1000th post. A milestone of sorts and something I would not have thought possible when I made my first post (*) here on Thu 26 Feb 2009.
Because there are no ends, there are only means. Life carries him from unknown to unknown. Each moment is filled with this thrilling mystery: the warrior does not know where he came from or where is going.
But he is not here by chance. And he is overjoyed by surprises and excited by landscapes that he has never seen before. He often feels afraid, but that is normal in a warrior.
If he thinks only of the goal, he will not be able to pay attention to the signs along the way. If he concentrates only on one question, he will miss various answers that are there beside him. That is why the warrior submits.
I think the above passage from the Manual of the Warrior of Light (*) provides a useful metaphor for this blog and the 1000 posts that it now comprises.
It is a reflection of my life and who I am. I am never quite sure where it is going - I just try to make connections between what I read, what I see, what I photograph and what I feel.
A lot has happened and changed in the last three and half years since that first post. I have learnt a lot about myself and others. I have made plenty of mistakes, yet I think I have done a few things right. I have been defeated, yet I have have had a few wins, for which I am grateful. I have been sad and I have been happy. I have felt lost and without purpose yet in some ways I have found myself. I have looked to the past, present and future. I have had regrets [and learnt how to let them go]. I have given up and I have battled on. I have lost belief in myself, yet I have found ways to restore that belief. I have been hurt, upset and I have forgiven. I have cried and I have laughed. I have been directionless and without purpose, yet I have had goals. I have been inspired. I have tried hard, too hard sometimes. I tried to be something I am not, and I have learnt my limits and what I can be. I have watched and followed, and at times I have lead, mostly unknowingly I should think.
Somehow I am happy when some say I should be angry. I have suffered and have empathised with the suffering of others. I have been drawn into other people's battles and have known how to respond. I believe in luck (and fate) and know that it comes from being prepared and the willingness to take a risk.
I have changed but remained the same. I am older though I feel younger. I am experienced but still feel like a beginner. I am wiser but more naive. I found a voice (an awkward one at that) I did not know I had. You don't know how far you have been until you get back. I've been all over and it's been all over me . Therefore I am thankful for this blog and what I have learnt about myself and others.
Many times I have asked myself why? post what I have posted here and other times I have said to myself, well why not? (this post being an example). I am starting to forget things, so it is nice to make the effort to write what is important, so it can be recalled. I have memories and I am making memories.
Most importantly, I have Remembered Jenny (*) - how she lived and how she died. Jo and I are the bearers of her memory and she lives on in our hearts and in our minds until we lay to rest beside her.
I could go on, but I won't ().
It's all here in these 1000 posts which are just like snapshots of my life.
Like Paulo Coelho's good warrior, I am not really sure where I am going and what might be ahead. I have come to learn that this is what life is all about. Ultimately I think I have learnt to become a bit more certain of the uncertain. I have accepted this - well at least I think I have.
Hopefully, i will have the opportunity to post another 1000 posts. Let's see what happens.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Two Years Ago Today - Sat 29 Aug 2009
Sitting on a Bus half between Montreal and Toronto, as I was booking our accommodation for the next 4 nights, I realise the date.
It is 29 Aug 2011, and it is exactly 2 years to the day that we won the 500m Senior A Mixed Final in Prague.
World Champs - Australian Senior Mixed 500m Team - "As I came across the line I glanced upward and I pointed to the heavens" Lance A – Prague/Racice - Day 4 - 29 Aug 2009
As I think back to those moments and the two years that have followed, I have many emotions. I look at the photos of myself and I can't even comprehend how I was even there paddling after barely 10 weeks since Jenny's passing. I also think of the time between then and now, and I try to comprehend what I have been through to be here now. As I look to the future, I really have no idea what is next. Anyway, I try not to think about that too much and just try to be the best I can with what I have been given.
Geoff - post 200m Senior Open Final "letting go" - Racice/Prague 2009 - 28 Aug 2009 (picasa)
It is hard for me to even explain that day. I have tried here a few times (*). I am grateful (*) for the experience and feel lucky that I was on the boat that day.
I have been trying to find an appropriate Warrior of Light passage to mark this moment. Maybe the following is appropriate. I know my own failings and I would like to think that I live life with Faith, Hope and Love ..
It is 29 Aug 2011, and it is exactly 2 years to the day that we won the 500m Senior A Mixed Final in Prague.
As I think back to those moments and the two years that have followed, I have many emotions. I look at the photos of myself and I can't even comprehend how I was even there paddling after barely 10 weeks since Jenny's passing. I also think of the time between then and now, and I try to comprehend what I have been through to be here now. As I look to the future, I really have no idea what is next. Anyway, I try not to think about that too much and just try to be the best I can with what I have been given.
It is hard for me to even explain that day. I have tried here a few times (*). I am grateful (*) for the experience and feel lucky that I was on the boat that day.
I have been trying to find an appropriate Warrior of Light passage to mark this moment. Maybe the following is appropriate. I know my own failings and I would like to think that I live life with Faith, Hope and Love ..
A warrior of light knows his own faults. But he also knows his qualities.from Paulo Coelho's - 'The Manual of the Warrior Light'.
Some of his companions complain all the time that'other people have more opportunities than we do'.Perhaps they are right, but a warrior does not allow himself to be paralysed by this; he tries to make the most of his virtues.
He knows that the gazelle's power lies in its strong legs. The power of the seagull lies in the accuracy with which it can spear a fish. He has learned that the reason the tiger does not fear the hyena is because he is aware of his own strength.
He tries to establish what he can truly rely on. And he always checks that he carries three things with him:faith, hope and love.If these three things are there, he does not hesitate to go forward.
The Warrior of Light is a Believer - Tampa 2011 Reflections (30 Aug 2012)
The following quote (I have posted it here about a year ago) is the last thing I said to the Team as I handed out the gifts to the Aurora's Grand Master's Leadership and Management Team.
I had thought of this story as I reflected on my campaign for Tampa 2011 over the last few days of the event. The campaign did give me a goal and focus at a time (might be best called a distraction) when I was struggling most with Jenny's loss. In many ways it helped give me some purpose to my life and I would like to think that the experience was worth it just for that.
I was proud to deliver my Crew Leader Speech (*) to the Aurora's Squad and to be able to nominate Joanne as a possible Flag Bearer. I will publish the nomination here when I get home in a few weeks time.
For the rest of 2011, I plan to just paddle and enjoy myself just doing that. Having thrown everything at the campaign, I need to start picking up the pieces of that has been neglected through distraction and keep moving forward.
It was a difficult campaign for me in many ways and with all that happened I would still like to think that I am still a believer. After all three steps forward and two steps back is still a step in the right direction.
Stencil - Lower East / New York City (Wed 17 Aug 2011)
I had thought of this story as I reflected on my campaign for Tampa 2011 over the last few days of the event. The campaign did give me a goal and focus at a time (might be best called a distraction) when I was struggling most with Jenny's loss. In many ways it helped give me some purpose to my life and I would like to think that the experience was worth it just for that.
I was proud to deliver my Crew Leader Speech (*) to the Aurora's Squad and to be able to nominate Joanne as a possible Flag Bearer. I will publish the nomination here when I get home in a few weeks time.
For the rest of 2011, I plan to just paddle and enjoy myself just doing that. Having thrown everything at the campaign, I need to start picking up the pieces of that has been neglected through distraction and keep moving forward.
It was a difficult campaign for me in many ways and with all that happened I would still like to think that I am still a believer. After all three steps forward and two steps back is still a step in the right direction.
The warrior of light is a believer.From the The Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coehlo.
Because he believes in miracles, miracles begin to happen.
Because he is sure that his thoughts can change his life, his life begins to change.
Because he is certain that he will find love, that love appears.
Now and then, he is disappointed. Sometimes, he gets hurt.
Then he hears people say:'He's so ingenuous!'But the warrior knows that it is worth it. For every defeat, he has two victories in his favour.
All believers know this.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
The Warrior of The Light knows how to lose.
A repost of a previous post that seems very appropriate at the moment. Makes you realise what has been achieved in the past with great friends and paddlers. Will just have to keep sticking at it and maybe things might go the right way next time.
The Warrior of The Light knows how to lose.
He does not treat defeat as if it were a matter of indifference to him, saying things like
Painful wounds, the indifference of friends, the loneliness of losing-all leave a bitter taste. But at these times, he says to himself:
From the The Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coehlo.
Senior B Mixed 200m - Tampa 2011 (Fri 05 Aug 2011)
Little Wonders
Rob Thomas
Let it go
Let it roll right off your shoulder
Don't you know
The hardest part is over
Let it in
Let your clarity define you
In the end
We will only just remember how it feels
Been doing a lot of "letting go" lately.
Keep Moving Forward (Little Wonders Video by Rob Thomas)
The Warrior of The Light knows how to lose.
He does not treat defeat as if it were a matter of indifference to him, saying things like
Oh, it doesn’t matteror
To be honest, I didn’t really want it that much.He accepts defeat as defeat and does not try to make a victory out of it.
Painful wounds, the indifference of friends, the loneliness of losing-all leave a bitter taste. But at these times, he says to himself:
I fought for something and did not succeed. I lost the first battle.These words give him renewed strength. He knows that no one wins all the time and he knows how to distinguish his successes from his failures.
From the The Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coehlo.
Little Wonders
Rob Thomas
Let it go
Let it roll right off your shoulder
Don't you know
The hardest part is over
Let it in
Let your clarity define you
In the end
We will only just remember how it feels
Been doing a lot of "letting go" lately.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
All the world's roads lead to the heart of the warrior
All the world's roads lead to the heart of the warrior; he plunges unhesitatingly into the river of passions always flowing through his life.
The warrior knows that he is free to choose his desires, and he makes these decisions with courage, detachment and - sometimes - with just a touch of madness.
He embraces his passions and enjoys them intensely. He knows that there is no need to renounce the pleasures of conquest; they are part of life and bring joy to all those who participate in them.
But he never loses sight of those things that last or of the strong bonds that are forged over time.
A warrior can distinguish between the transient and the enduring.
From the Manual of the Warrior of Light (*) by Paulo Coelho (*)
Intersection (*) - Jamaica Road / Bermondsey / London (Fri 04 Sep 2009)
The warrior knows that he is free to choose his desires, and he makes these decisions with courage, detachment and - sometimes - with just a touch of madness.
He embraces his passions and enjoys them intensely. He knows that there is no need to renounce the pleasures of conquest; they are part of life and bring joy to all those who participate in them.
But he never loses sight of those things that last or of the strong bonds that are forged over time.
A warrior can distinguish between the transient and the enduring.
From the Manual of the Warrior of Light (*) by Paulo Coelho (*)
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
The Fifth Mountain - Book - Paulo Coelho
From The Fifth Mountain by Paulo Coelho:
The Fifth Mountain is an instance (a computer term from Object Orient Programming) of Paulo's book, Manual of the Warrior of Light, which I have drawn much inspiration over the last 18 months or so.
Having read the Fifth Mountain after the Manual of the Warrior of Light I could see the Warrior metaphors in the story (surprised this has received little or no comment on the various online reviews/discussions I have read of The Fifth Mountain). And just to confirm my feelings about this, it becomes plainly obvious in the last few pages of the book.
Looking back now over the last two years, and in particular the time since I read the book, I can say it is an amazing book - probably the book I have learnt the most.
Strongly recommended if you have been where I have been, felt what I have felt and seen what I have seen (Do you see what I See?).
The Shallows - Water - Albany / Western Australia (Sun 18 Apr 2004)
Tragedies do happen. We can discover the reason, blame others, imagine how different our lives would be had they not occurred. But none of that is important: they did occur, and so be it. From there onward we must put aside the fear that they awoke in us and begin to rebuild.I read this book in early 2010 while on 3 months leave from work .
The Fifth Mountain is an instance (a computer term from Object Orient Programming) of Paulo's book, Manual of the Warrior of Light, which I have drawn much inspiration over the last 18 months or so.
Having read the Fifth Mountain after the Manual of the Warrior of Light I could see the Warrior metaphors in the story (surprised this has received little or no comment on the various online reviews/discussions I have read of The Fifth Mountain). And just to confirm my feelings about this, it becomes plainly obvious in the last few pages of the book.
Looking back now over the last two years, and in particular the time since I read the book, I can say it is an amazing book - probably the book I have learnt the most.
Strongly recommended if you have been where I have been, felt what I have felt and seen what I have seen (Do you see what I See?).
Friday, June 17, 2011
The warrior of light is now waking from his dream.
The warrior of light is now waking from his dream.
He thinks:
The warrior thinks:
The warrior has been asleep for a long time. It is only natural that he should wake up very gradually.
From the Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho.
Making a few changes in my life and I am happy about that. Does seem a bit like the above.
Yin and Yang- Water - Coral Sea - Kingfisher Bay Resort / Fraser Island (w) (5:47pm Sun 28 Apr 2002)
He thinks:
‘I do not know how to deal with this light that is making me grow.’The light, however, does not disappear.
The warrior thinks:
‘Changes must be made that I do not feel like making.’The light remains. Then the eyes and heart of the warrior begin to grow accustomed to the light. It is no longer frightens him and he finally accepts his own Legend, even if this means running risks.
The warrior has been asleep for a long time. It is only natural that he should wake up very gradually.
From the Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho.
Making a few changes in my life and I am happy about that. Does seem a bit like the above.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
A warrior of light shares his world
A warrior of light shares his world with the people he loves.
He tries to encourage them to do the things they would like to do but for which they lack the courage; at such times, the Enemy appears holding two wooden signs in his hand.
On one sign is written: 'Think about yourself. Keep all the blessings for yourself, otherwise you'll end up losing everything.'
On the other sign, he reads: 'Who do you think you are, helping other people? Can't you see your own faults?'
A warrior knows that he has faults. But he knows too that he cannot do his growing alone and thus distance himself from his companions.
Therefore, he throws the two signs to the floor, even if he thinks they may contain a grain of truth. The signs crumble into dust, and the warrior continues to encourage those nearest him.
Rainbow - Quay West (Mon 03 May 2004)
He tries to encourage them to do the things they would like to do but for which they lack the courage; at such times, the Enemy appears holding two wooden signs in his hand.
On one sign is written: 'Think about yourself. Keep all the blessings for yourself, otherwise you'll end up losing everything.'
On the other sign, he reads: 'Who do you think you are, helping other people? Can't you see your own faults?'
A warrior knows that he has faults. But he knows too that he cannot do his growing alone and thus distance himself from his companions.
Therefore, he throws the two signs to the floor, even if he thinks they may contain a grain of truth. The signs crumble into dust, and the warrior continues to encourage those nearest him.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
The Warrior of Light has dreams
The Warrior of Light has dreams.
His dreams carry him forward. But he never commits the mistake of thinking that the road is easy and the door wide.
He knows that the Universe works like alchemy: solve et coagula, say the masters. "Concentrate and disperse your energy according to the situation."
There are moments to act and moments to accept.
From the Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho (see here)
Turimetta Beach Sunrise - Northern Beaches / Sydney (Apr 2005)
His dreams carry him forward. But he never commits the mistake of thinking that the road is easy and the door wide.
He knows that the Universe works like alchemy: solve et coagula, say the masters. "Concentrate and disperse your energy according to the situation."
There are moments to act and moments to accept.
From the Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho (see here)
Saturday, February 19, 2011
The warrior of light views life with tenderness and determination
The warrior of light views life with tenderness and determination.
He stands before a mystery, whose solution he will one day find. Every so often, he says to himself:
Yes, life is insane. But the great wisdom of the warrior lies in choosing his insanity wisely.
From the Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho (more here).
Jen and Douglas - Douglas losing his hand - IT Crowd (Graham Lineham - itcrowd label) - Series 2 Episode 6 - Men without Women- London (2007)
Geoff (trying to make Jenny laugh) - Douglas losing his hand - Victory Terrace - Perth/WA (Sun 06 Oct 2008)
He stands before a mystery, whose solution he will one day find. Every so often, he says to himself:
'This life is absolutely insane.'He is right. In surrendering to the miracle of the everyday, he notices that he cannot always foresee the consequences of his actions. Sometimes he acts without even knowing that he is doing so, he saves someone without even knowing he is saving them, he suffers without even knowing why he is sad.
Yes, life is insane. But the great wisdom of the warrior lies in choosing his insanity wisely.
From the Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho (more here).
Monday, February 7, 2011
The Warrior of The Light knows how to lose.
The Warrior of The Light knows how to lose.
He does not treat defeat as if it were a matter of indifference to him, saying things like
Painful wounds, the indifference of friends, the loneliness of losing-all leave a bitter taste. But at these times, he says to himself:
From the The Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coehlo.
Geoff - "The Road to Prague 2009 started here" - Holiday Inn Atrium / Singapore - Sun 10 Aug 2008
Geoff - 200m Heat 2 - AusDBF Nationals / Sydney 2007 - (Apr 2007)
Little Wonders
Rob Thomas
Let it go
Let it roll right off your shoulder
Don't you know
The hardest part is over
Let it in
Let your clarity define you
In the end
We will only just remember how it feels
Been doing a lot of "letting go" lately.
Keep Moving Forward (Little Wonders Video by Rob Thomas)
He does not treat defeat as if it were a matter of indifference to him, saying things like
Oh, it doesn’t matteror
To be honest, I didn’t really want it that much.He accepts defeat as defeat and does not try to make a victory out of it.
Painful wounds, the indifference of friends, the loneliness of losing-all leave a bitter taste. But at these times, he says to himself:
I fought for something and did not succeed. I lost the first battle.These words give him renewed strength. He knows that no one wins all the time and he knows how to distinguish his successes from his failures.
From the The Manual of the Warrior of Light by Paulo Coehlo.
Little Wonders
Rob Thomas
Let it go
Let it roll right off your shoulder
Don't you know
The hardest part is over
Let it in
Let your clarity define you
In the end
We will only just remember how it feels
Been doing a lot of "letting go" lately.
Friday, February 4, 2011
The warrior of light knows the value of persistence and of courage
The warrior of light knows the value of persistence and of courage.
Often, during combat, he receives blows that he was not expecting. And he realises that, during the war, his enemy is bound to win some of the battles. When this happens, he weeps bitter tears and rests in order to recover his energies a little. But he immediately resumes his battle for his dreams.
The longer he remains away, the more likely he is to feel weak, fearful and intimidated. When a horseman falls off his horse, if he does not remount immediately, he will never have the courage to do so again.
From the Manual of Warrior of the Light by Paulo Coelho.
Geoff - Lake Albina / Main Range (Wed 29 Dec 2010)
Often, during combat, he receives blows that he was not expecting. And he realises that, during the war, his enemy is bound to win some of the battles. When this happens, he weeps bitter tears and rests in order to recover his energies a little. But he immediately resumes his battle for his dreams.
The longer he remains away, the more likely he is to feel weak, fearful and intimidated. When a horseman falls off his horse, if he does not remount immediately, he will never have the courage to do so again.
From the Manual of Warrior of the Light by Paulo Coelho.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Anders Gustafsson AG79 - Celebrating a Great Season
If you liked It's whoever has worked the hardest and smartest who will win, then you will love this one (the end of season sequel).
Found this from Anders (analog79) twitter update today:
"No, my ego hasn't totally grown out of proportion. I'm just trying to share some paddling inspiration. http://fb.me/CCyX90ba (Youtube)"
Certainly is inspirational stuff and I think he is allowed to celebrate his great season. All Warriors of Light know this (see here). Specifically:
".. the warrior knows why he is celebrating. He is savouring the best gift that victory can bring: confidence.
He celebrates yesterday's victory in order to gain more strength for tomorrow's battle."
[ Note: Music ("Mind Heist") by Zack Hemsey from the soundtrack of Inception. ]
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Macau 2010: The warrior of light is a believer ..
The warrior of light is a believer.
Because he believes in miracles, miracles begin to happen. Because he is sure that his thoughts can change his life, his life begins to change. Because he is certain that he will find love, that love appears.
Now and then he is disappointed. Sometimes he gets hurt.
Then he hears people say ‘He is so ingenuous’
But the warrior knows that it is worth it. For every defeat, he has two victories in his favour.
All believers know this.
From the Manual of Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho. A really hard campaign (and here) for me in many ways, but I know we believed when it counted most - it was a matter of 'remembering and honouring', and 'letting go' at the same time .
Pacific Dragons 2km Premier Mixed Team - (b-f-l-r) Kaizer Austin, Michelle Hone, Lisa Green, Rachel Mosen, Joanne Petterson, Nicola Frowen, Geoff Eldridge (Jenny's Candle), Kerry Davenport, Helen Papin, Paul Smith, Di Morgan, Michelle Ng, Stuart Young, Anne Weber, Christian Happich, Annett Happich, Christophe Pistoni, Craig Stewart, Graeme Bacon, Matt Spies, Michal Hrcka, Justin Spake, Mark Hall, Todd Skeels, Norman Joe - Macau/China - Thu 29 Jul 2009
A candle for Jenny - Macau/China - Thu 29 Jul 2009
Pacific Dragons Small Boat 200m Premier Womens - (b-f-l-r) Michelle Hone, Nicola Frowen, Joanne Petterson, Annett Happich, Michelle Ng, Anne Weber, kathaleen Burrows, Di Morgan, Julia Ryall, Suzy Kong, Kerry Davenport, Helen Papin, Lisa Green, Rachel Mosen - Macau/China - Fri 30 Jul 2010
Geoff, Joanne and Mike Haslam - Macau/China - Fri 30 Jul 2010
Premier Mixed 500m Final - Macau/China - Sat 31 Jul 2010
Pacific Dragons Premier Mixed 500m Team - Back (l-r) Geoff Eldridge, Norman Joe, Rachel Mosen, Kerry Davenport, Darren Ma, Todd Skeels, Craig Stewart, Justin Spake, Michal Hrcka, Suzy Kong, Annett Happich, Mark Hall, Lisa Green, Stuart Young, Toby Wilson, Graeme Bacon Front (l-r) Michelle Ng, Helen Papin, Christian Happich, Matt Spies, Michelle Hone, Nicola Frowen, Di Morgan, Paul Smith, Christophe Pistoni, Julia Ryall, Kathaleen Burrows - Macau/China - Sun 01 Aug 2010
Because he believes in miracles, miracles begin to happen. Because he is sure that his thoughts can change his life, his life begins to change. Because he is certain that he will find love, that love appears.
Now and then he is disappointed. Sometimes he gets hurt.
Then he hears people say ‘He is so ingenuous’
But the warrior knows that it is worth it. For every defeat, he has two victories in his favour.
All believers know this.
From the Manual of Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho. A really hard campaign (and here) for me in many ways, but I know we believed when it counted most - it was a matter of 'remembering and honouring', and 'letting go' at the same time .
Macau 2010: The Warrior's Motivation and Inspiration ..
One day, for no apparent reason, the warrior realises that he does not feel the same enthusiasm for the fight that he used to.
He continues to do what he has always done, but every gesture seems meaningless. At such a time, he has only one choice: to continue fighting the Good Fight. He says his prayers out of duty or fear or whatever, but he does not abandon the path.
He knows that the angel of the One who inspires him has simply wandered off somewhere. The warrior keeps his attention focused on the battle and he perseveres, even when everything seems utterly pointless. The angel will soon return and the merest flutter of her wings will restore the warrior's joy to him.
From the Manual of Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho - (more here). More about Macau 2010.
Geoff and Joanne - Macau/China - Fri 30 Jul 2010
A candle for Jenny - Macau/China - Thu 29 Jul 2009
Hotel Eaton/Hong Kong - Tue 27 Jul 2010
Joanne and Geoff - Ord River Marathon - Kununarra/WA - Sun 13 Jun 2010
Geoff and Joanne - 2010 Asian Dragon Boat Championships - Wujin/China - Sat 01 May 2010
Geoff and Joanne - 2010 Asian Dragon Boat Championships Opening Ceremony - Wujin/China - Fri 30 Apr 2010
Geoff and Joanne - AusDBF National Dragon Boat Championships - Adelaide - Sun 25 Apr 2010
Back (l-r) Mark Hall, Michal Hrcka, Marty Doherty, Craig Stewart, Graeme Bacon, Grant Billen, Norman Joe, Stuart Young Front (l-r) Adrian Wicks, Moana, Geoff Eldridge, Gavin Godfrey, Matt Spies - Pacific Dragons Mens Outriggers - OC6 State Marathon Titles/Port Stephens - Sat 27 Mar 2010
Jenny, Geoff and Joanne - St George Private Hospital - Sun 19 Aug 2006 (picasa)
Geoff and Jenny - 2nd Wedding Anniversay - Quay West/Sydney - Tue 30 Apr 2002
He continues to do what he has always done, but every gesture seems meaningless. At such a time, he has only one choice: to continue fighting the Good Fight. He says his prayers out of duty or fear or whatever, but he does not abandon the path.
He knows that the angel of the One who inspires him has simply wandered off somewhere. The warrior keeps his attention focused on the battle and he perseveres, even when everything seems utterly pointless. The angel will soon return and the merest flutter of her wings will restore the warrior's joy to him.
From the Manual of Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho - (more here). More about Macau 2010.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
The Warrior and the Good Fight
The warrior rarely knows the result of a battle when the battle is over.
The activity of fighting will have generated an enormous amount of energy around him and there is always a moment when victory and defeat are both equally possible. Time will tell who won and who lost, but he knows that, from that moment on, he can do nothing more: the fate of that battle lies in God's hands.
At such moments, the warrior of light is not concerned with results. He examines his heart and asks: 'Did I fight the Good Fight?' If the answer is 'yes', he can rest. If the answer is 'no', he takes up his sword and begins training all over again.
From the Manual of Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho - (more here).
'..Time will tell who won and who lost..' - Premier Open 200m Final - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2010 (picasa)
Makes me think of 200m Dragon Boat Racing. At club level, it's all over in 45-46 seconds and at World Championship level, for the top countries (i.e. the Philippines and China), it is closer to 39-40 seconds. Always finish a 200m race not really knowing the result, though more often than not I always have a strong feeling we have done it.
The 200m is a great leveler where placing margins are in the 1/100's of a second. I enjoy the flurry of 200m racing where it is important to put all the training into action, and to not hesitate or make mistakes. There is no time to think, you just have to do what you have trained yourselves to do.
Somehow we have squirmed through the National Finals where we have competed - 2006 (Nagambie/Vic after a dramatic final rerun), 2007 (Sydney/NSW), 2008 (we did not go to Perth), 2009 (Kawana/Qld) and 2010 (Adelaide/SA).
Keep on paddling.
The activity of fighting will have generated an enormous amount of energy around him and there is always a moment when victory and defeat are both equally possible. Time will tell who won and who lost, but he knows that, from that moment on, he can do nothing more: the fate of that battle lies in God's hands.
At such moments, the warrior of light is not concerned with results. He examines his heart and asks: 'Did I fight the Good Fight?' If the answer is 'yes', he can rest. If the answer is 'no', he takes up his sword and begins training all over again.
From the Manual of Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho - (more here).
Makes me think of 200m Dragon Boat Racing. At club level, it's all over in 45-46 seconds and at World Championship level, for the top countries (i.e. the Philippines and China), it is closer to 39-40 seconds. Always finish a 200m race not really knowing the result, though more often than not I always have a strong feeling we have done it.
The 200m is a great leveler where placing margins are in the 1/100's of a second. I enjoy the flurry of 200m racing where it is important to put all the training into action, and to not hesitate or make mistakes. There is no time to think, you just have to do what you have trained yourselves to do.
Somehow we have squirmed through the National Finals where we have competed - 2006 (Nagambie/Vic after a dramatic final rerun), 2007 (Sydney/NSW), 2008 (we did not go to Perth), 2009 (Kawana/Qld) and 2010 (Adelaide/SA).
Keep on paddling.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
A Warrior of light is wise; he does not talk about his defeat
The warrior of light never forgets the old saying: the good little goat doesn't bleat.
Injustices happen. Everyone finds themselves in situations they do not deserve, usually when they are unable to defend themselves. Defeat often knocks at the warrior's door.
At such times, he remains silent. He does not waste energy on words, because they can do nothing; it is best to use his strength to resist and have patience, knowing that Someone is watching, Someone who saw the unnecessary suffering and who will not accept it.
That Someone gives him what he most needs: time. Sooner or later, everything will once more work in his favour.
A warrior of light is wise; he does not talk about his defeats.
From the Manual of Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho - (more here).
Has felt a bit like this of recent, though if I were to take this passage literally I should not be talking about it :-) Thinking about it a bit more, I have decided that 'That Someone' referenced in the text should be me. Will move past this as we make our way to Macau in late July.
Lake Burley Griffin Sunset - Black: Dark Days - Canberra - 02 Aug 2002 - (picasa)
Injustices happen. Everyone finds themselves in situations they do not deserve, usually when they are unable to defend themselves. Defeat often knocks at the warrior's door.
At such times, he remains silent. He does not waste energy on words, because they can do nothing; it is best to use his strength to resist and have patience, knowing that Someone is watching, Someone who saw the unnecessary suffering and who will not accept it.
That Someone gives him what he most needs: time. Sooner or later, everything will once more work in his favour.
A warrior of light is wise; he does not talk about his defeats.
From the Manual of Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho - (more here).
Has felt a bit like this of recent, though if I were to take this passage literally I should not be talking about it :-) Thinking about it a bit more, I have decided that 'That Someone' referenced in the text should be me. Will move past this as we make our way to Macau in late July.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
When he wins a battle, the warrior celebrates
When he wins a battle, the warrior celebrates.
This victory has cost him anxious moments, nights racked with doubt, endless days of waiting. Since ancient times, celebrating a triumph has been part of the ritual of life itself: celebration is a rite of passage.
His companions see the warrior of light's joy and think: 'Why is he doing that? He might be disappointed in his next battle. He might draw down on himself the wrath of his enemy.'
But the warrior knows why he is celebrating. He is savouring the best gift that victory can bring: confidence.
He celebrates yesterday's victory in order to gain more strength for tomorrow's battle.
From the Manual of Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho - (more here).
The above passage now makes me realise why we should celebrate our little successes and achievements - it is not just about celebrating the victory!!
Jenny - she has just been presented with 2006 Aus Flag Bearer Recognition Trophy (Macau 2006 - a story for another day) - Kawana - 23 Apr 2009 (picasa)
Hard to believe that 12 months has almost gone by since the 2009 AusDBF National Dragon Boat Titles at Kawana. As we go through the final selection process and complete our final training sessions, I guess it is a good time to reflect on past experiences.
We did have a great time at the 2009 Nationals and it was fantastic that Jenny was with us. The day before we flew to the Sunshine coast, Jenny had her 5th cycle of fortnightly treatment (chemo and another drug, Avastin) and was still able to paddle for her State and Club over the Regatta. She did experience numerous visual migraines at night, which a month later would be diagnosed as being caused by a 4cm brain tumor. She also worried that the tumors in her liver would cause painful cramping in her stomach, but this did not occur while she was paddling.
Jenny, Jo and Geoff - 200m Men's and Women's Tropy's - Breakfree Resort/Caloundra - 26 Apr 2009 (picasa)
The following is a small photo essay of the "9 from 9" effort by my club, the Pacific Dragons. This result was never expected and we took it one race at a time. Each day the Women's Crew would put the race of a lifetime on the water in the final and somehow come across the line first. This then put the pressure on the Men's crew to do the same. A few strategic words, a couple of calming and distracting jokes, and the moving story of brave little Tommy , from Gav would get us on the water to do the best we could. The rest is now history.
Gav gave Eugene (my seat 1 partner) and myself, the great honour of receiving the last club trophy to be presented at the Regatta. It was an amazing moment for Eugene and I, as we held aloft the Gold Medals and 200m Open's Winning Trophy. The assembled Australian Dragon Boat Community stood and applauded the amazing and historic achievement of our club, the Pacific Dragons. I had never seen anything like it and was humbled by the genorosity of spirit the Australian Dragon Boat community displayed that day to our Coaches, Teams, and Club.
All the best to every competing at the 2010 AusDBF National Dragon Boat Championships in Adelaide over the Anzac Weekend. Look forward to some great racing and catching up with many friends, and hopefully making some new friends on and off the water.
See you in Adelaide. Jenny's Spirit and Memory will be with us. She Guides and Inspires us from Above.
PD's Premier Open 200m Final - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2010 (picasa)
Premier Opens 200m Final - AusDBF 2009 National Dragon Boat Champs - Kawana/Qld - Sun 26 Apr 2009 (at youtube by warwick27au)
The smile says it all - "9 from 9" - tidying up the Cox Vox cable after the Premier Open 200m Final - Anne would ask me to come and celebrate with the Team off the water - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2009 (picasa)
Eugene and Geoff - Premier Open 200m Presentation - "PD's - nine from nine !! - I did not really want this weekend to end as I kind of knew the end was beginning to start (Editors: An End has a Start)." - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2009 (picasa)
The Australian Dragon Boat Community acknowledging Pacific Dragons "9 from 9" - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2009 (picasa)
Lost in the Crowd - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2009 (picasa)
PD's Premier Open Men - After Party Celebration - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2010 (picasa)
Pacific Dragons - After Party Celebration - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2010 (picasa)
The Orange Wave - Gav Crowd Surfing - Just go with it Gav - After Party Celebration - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2010 (picasa)
Joanne, Helen, Jenny and Nicola - After Party Celebration - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2010 (picasa)
Joanne, Jenny and Geoff - After Party Celebration - Kawana - Sun 26 Apr 2010 (picasa)
Vale Jenny Petterson - picasaweb - A Pocketful of Sequins - PD's Tribute (picasa)
This victory has cost him anxious moments, nights racked with doubt, endless days of waiting. Since ancient times, celebrating a triumph has been part of the ritual of life itself: celebration is a rite of passage.
His companions see the warrior of light's joy and think: 'Why is he doing that? He might be disappointed in his next battle. He might draw down on himself the wrath of his enemy.'
But the warrior knows why he is celebrating. He is savouring the best gift that victory can bring: confidence.
He celebrates yesterday's victory in order to gain more strength for tomorrow's battle.
From the Manual of Warrior of Light by Paulo Coelho - (more here).
The above passage now makes me realise why we should celebrate our little successes and achievements - it is not just about celebrating the victory!!
Hard to believe that 12 months has almost gone by since the 2009 AusDBF National Dragon Boat Titles at Kawana. As we go through the final selection process and complete our final training sessions, I guess it is a good time to reflect on past experiences.
We did have a great time at the 2009 Nationals and it was fantastic that Jenny was with us. The day before we flew to the Sunshine coast, Jenny had her 5th cycle of fortnightly treatment (chemo and another drug, Avastin) and was still able to paddle for her State and Club over the Regatta. She did experience numerous visual migraines at night, which a month later would be diagnosed as being caused by a 4cm brain tumor. She also worried that the tumors in her liver would cause painful cramping in her stomach, but this did not occur while she was paddling.
The following is a small photo essay of the "9 from 9" effort by my club, the Pacific Dragons. This result was never expected and we took it one race at a time. Each day the Women's Crew would put the race of a lifetime on the water in the final and somehow come across the line first. This then put the pressure on the Men's crew to do the same. A few strategic words, a couple of calming and distracting jokes, and the moving story of brave little Tommy , from Gav would get us on the water to do the best we could. The rest is now history.
Gav gave Eugene (my seat 1 partner) and myself, the great honour of receiving the last club trophy to be presented at the Regatta. It was an amazing moment for Eugene and I, as we held aloft the Gold Medals and 200m Open's Winning Trophy. The assembled Australian Dragon Boat Community stood and applauded the amazing and historic achievement of our club, the Pacific Dragons. I had never seen anything like it and was humbled by the genorosity of spirit the Australian Dragon Boat community displayed that day to our Coaches, Teams, and Club.
All the best to every competing at the 2010 AusDBF National Dragon Boat Championships in Adelaide over the Anzac Weekend. Look forward to some great racing and catching up with many friends, and hopefully making some new friends on and off the water.
See you in Adelaide. Jenny's Spirit and Memory will be with us. She Guides and Inspires us from Above.
Vale Jenny Petterson - picasaweb - A Pocketful of Sequins - PD's Tribute (picasa)
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