Curious Incidents of a Flailing Mermaid

Christmas Soundtrack Day 3-when annoyances & reality collide

Unfortunately, yesterday’s song wasn’t very uplifting and I don’t think today’s will be, either. I swear tomorrow will be brighter.

Today, I was a guest at an event held at my old school. It was odd to be somewhere that felt to familiar and filled with distant memories. I had to speak about my experiences and watch as young people learnt to be sports officials and volunteers. I’m not going to lie, it wasn’t the most exciting day – I prefer to be more hands on rather than merely an observer.

Throughout the day, I spoke about my achievements and motivational tools with students and teachers, even through my non-existent lunch break. I wasn’t told what the organisers wanted me to do until 4pm yesterday, which annoyed me too.

If I am honest, I can be rather modest and always surprised when people are impressed the things I've done. Today, more so I feel.

On my way home, I was thinking how mad everyone was and questioning why I still held this position in society. I was, somewhat, annoyed by the fact that I am seemingly being thanked for doing a job that bored me. In a sense, I was unreasonably annoyed that this nonsense was being forced on me.

Then, as I was nearing home, today’s song (well, the new version) came on the radio. Within the first few bars, I was sorry! I was sorry for moaning about earning a living in a pretty cool way, really. So what if I don’t get a lunch! So what if I need to work late sometimes to make sure people get what they deserve from me! So what if things that I am clearly far too complacent about impress people!

Immediately, images were swimming through my head. I’m not talking about my imagination or images I’ve seen in the media. No, I’m talking about actual memories.

Memories from when I lived in Africa.

I’ve seen real poverty and illness first hand. I had friends who were grateful just to share my two-penny ice-pop; grateful for a roof over their heads. But they were, on the whole, happy.

What do I have to moan about? I have a good job, I’m comfortable, my house is warm, I’ve got a great opportunity to inspire others, I have food, and I’m happy.

Sometimes, we need to step back and think. Or, at least I do.

I’m not preaching here, these are the genuine thoughts that came to mind when I heard this song…