2009 - some thoughts...

Some of these things I learnt, some I already knew (this is not intended as a definitive list!):

Some people really do love their pets as much as they love people.
Many animal breeders are in a state of denial about the affects of inter-breeding and the affect that it has on so called 'pure' breeds.
Many people still treat human beings worse than they treat animals.
Many people eat meat and justify the killing of animals because those animals have been given life for the prime reason of providing food for humanity and were well cared for (in some cases) prior to their slaughter.
Animals are used more and more in medical experimentation and biomedical applications for the benefit of humans. This results in a co-dependant and symbiotic relationship between humans and animals.
The human/swine flu occurred because pigs contracted the virus from humans, not the other way around!
We can learn to treat each other better by engaging with the issue of 'animal rights'.
Human rights is still a hotly contested zone.
Human beings are closer to animals than they previously thought they were.

Over-thinking can make you anxious, but not thinking things through thoroughly enough can be equally destructive.
Equilibrium in all things is desirable, but not always achieveable.
I learnt to trust and was betrayed.
I learnt that I have integrity and expect the same of others.
I learnt that I could be seduced and be a seducer.
Letting go is a useful strategy if you can do it, but sometimes letting go is not the most useful strategy - acceptance is probably better.
Being happier with what you have, rather than focusing on what you don't have is a desirable state of being.
Being alone has its advantages and disadvantages, but I've learnt that I can appreciate a sunset even though I have no-one to share it with!
When I love, I love boots and all, which I guess means that I go into it totally, fully, passionately.
People who appear superficial are often quite deep with their emotions.
Many people want peace, but don't know how to make it happen even in the small space of their family.
Money is still the one thing that people would prefer to have over love or anything else, because it gives them some kind of security (even if it is illusionary).
I am extremely lucky to have known the people I've known.
Focussed attention makes greens greener and every little thing so significant!
Worry never affects outcome - carefull thinking and planning may.
I am grateful and lucky that my son incarnated into my life!