Last weekend I had a very busy 'city day' in York, leaving home early morning and arriving back in Scarborough at six in the evening. It had been a special day. Although I was tired I felt I wanted a glimpse of the sea to round it off so took a short diversion on my drive home to check it out. The day was overcast and windy but the sea was calm, with all sorts of hues of greys and blues. The tide was out exposing a big stretch of golden sand. It all looked very inviting. But I was hungry and decided the kindest thing was to go home and eat. Even a quick visit to the amazing ocean and sea air felt refreshing.

Back home I was just in the middle of an evening meal when an alert came on my phone - there were dolphins approaching Scarborough! I considered jumping straight back into the car to try to see them. We never know whether they'll pass quickly through or linger, be near or distant, be barely breaking the surface or doing acrobatic leaps. Nevertheless the temptation to drop everything when we get a dolphin alert is strong!

But I was aware that my feet felt they wanted a rest after the day, my stomach wanted its tea and overall I needed a little quiet time at home. So I made the decision to finish my meal and tend to my need for some stillness.

Reports came in that the dolphins had passed quickly through, and were making their way north up the coast. I felt a slight sense of disappointment, feeling they could have been 'the icing on the cake' to my day. However, we are blessed with frequent visits by these amazing creatures and I've learnt to (mostly!) accept the times I miss them, knowing there would likely be other opportunities.

I enjoyed my meal, and felt no rush to get up after it, sitting, resting, watching the wind in the trees outside. Gently reflecting on my day. Then the 'dolphin alert' on the phone pinged again. They'd turned round and were heading back to Scarborough. And it was as if my body spoke for me. This time with an emphatic 'yes!'. I found myself leaping up, grabbing a coat, my binoculars and the car keys. It seemed I'd now had enough rest!

It took me less than ten minutes to reach a good look out point. And to my delight within moments I spotted the dolphins. Relatively far out but very animated. Breaking the surface with some massive leaps, often in what looked liked synchronised choreography... curving, leaping sleek grey bodies, dramatic splashing... a wonderful sight. They were likely fishing, and indeed I saw one throw a fish into the air! I felt blessed, privileged and extremely grateful. Later one of the wildlife group posted his photos, and kindly agreed that I share them with you.

This week's self-kindness invitation is to notice any times you have to/choose to let go of something you wanted/would have liked and to cultivate your sense of trust that other good things will come your way. Doing our best to develop a positive outlook, rather than dwelling on what's lacking, is profound self-kindness.

Go well.

In warmth and kindness

Barbara