Part 2 Shadows or Shade?

English weather means we don’t often get the choice between shadows or shade. A bit of sunshine in an English summer and we are all out there, exposing ourselves to the glorious rays. When we talk about shadows, we usually mean it negatively.

However, growing up in a hot country and recently visiting in Minneapolis in the summer, I’ve learned to value the shade. Most of the houses are built with verandas or porches to create shadows to cool and protect you from the sun’s glare.

“To sit in the shade on a fine day and look upon verdure is the most perfect refreshment.”
Jane Austen

Shadows give perspective and make a picture seem more real. They give a sense of time–even without thinking, the length of the shadows tell us it is evening.

We’re encouraged to push forward, resent people who “block our light” and feel unhappy if others get the limelight. We  look for what we don’t have, rather than relish the experience and be grateful for a rest. It means the shadows are full of unhappy people–rushing out into the sun without the sun cream…

So next time you’re in the shade, think of the benefits.

Stuck in the background?

We often resent the time when others outshine us.  Use the time in the shadows as a time to reflect and reassess where you are now and where you want to be.

You don’t need to stay in the shadows forever, but when the spotlight is on someone else it gives you a chance to fix any problems. Remember the show can’t go on without the backstage crew. Those in the shadows are often appreciated more than they think.

You’ll also appreciate the warmth of the sun even more when you leave the shadows…

“Modesty is to merit what shade is to figures in a picture; it gives it strength and makes it stand out.”
Jean de La Bruyère