As grandmothers, many of you may know yesterday was March 3/2025 was #WorldHearingDay2025, a day to listen from within, with all those who have themselves or have loved ones with hearing loss.
For me, this day is both a reminder and a celebration of the importance of hearing and listening.
I have faced my own struggles with the persistent ringing in my ears, the whispers of tinnitus, drowning out sounds. My own grandmother was deaf, and I saw the isolation and pain she faced. The anxiety and frustration of not being able to hear properly, the moments of feeling left out in conversations, and the silent battles fought within.
As a Kintsugi woman, I have learned to embrace these challenges. Just as the art of Kintsugi mends broken pottery with gold, highlighting its fractures rather than hiding them, I have learned to cherish my hearing struggles as a part of my unique journey. These imperfections have taught me to listen more intently to my inner voice, guided by passion and spirit.
Listening, truly listening, goes beyond the act of hearing. It involves being present, being patient, and being compassionate with ourselves and others.
Despite the moments of anxiety and pain, there is a beautiful resilience that comes from facing these challenges head-on. We may miss out on certain sounds, but we gain a deeper appreciation for the ones we can still hear. We learn to find joy in the stillness, to find solace in our inner voice, and to draw strength from our spirit.
As grandmothers, we hold a special place in the tapestry of our families. We are the keepers of stories, the nurturers of hearts, and the pillars of love. On this World Hearing Day, let us honour our own journeys, acknowledge the struggles we face, and celebrate the resilience that defines us. Let us continue to listen to our inner voice, guided by passion and spirit, and find beauty in the imperfect symphony of our lives.
May we, as global grandmothers, inspire others to embrace their own unique journeys, to listen deeply, and to find strength in their inner light. Together, we create a world where and every heart is filled with love. every story is cherished, and every voice is heard.
Honouring this journey means acknowledging the strength and courage it takes to face these challenges. It means giving ourselves permission to feel the pain, the frustration, and the anxiety, but also to celebrate the moments of connection, growth and joy. By taking care of ourselves, we set an example for our grandchildren and others around us, showing them the importance of self-care and resilience.
As grandmothers, we have the power to inspire and support each other. Let's come together, share our stories, and lift each other up. Let's embrace the art of Kintsugi, finding beauty in our imperfections and strength in our struggles. Together, we can navigate this journey with grace, compassion, and unwavering spirit.
May we continue to listen to our inner voices, guided by passion and spirit, and find peace in the midst of chaos. Let's honour this journey for ourselves and for all the grandmothers who walk this path alongside us. Together, we create a legacy of love, resilience, and unbreakable bonds.
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