We used to keep a pair of goats and sadly, one of them died, leaving us with a single goat. However an ‘alone’ goat is a sad goat to be sure and when Gordon passed away leaving just Bennett, the lonely goat was so distressed our only options were for us to either move into his stable with him – or have him move into the house with us. We chose the latter (hmm – ever seen a goat watch TV – I have!) ….and next day we urgently found Bennett a companion goat (Joshua!) to both live outside!

Goats aren't the only flocking animal - are you one?

Well, goats aren’t the only ‘flocking’ animal; it can be vital for all of us to be connected to others too. That doesn’t mean we can’t live alone – but it refers to someone, some group, something…to whom we can feel connected? For some of us this is a partner and maybe children. For others it may be extended family. Then there’s Facebook or Friends Reunited…being a football team supporter… having colleagues at work…owning a pet…and of course, religion – a sense of being part of God’s family.

Sometimes it’s in the sharing of a story with friends, or the showing of the holiday photos to the family, that it can all be enjoyed even better than the original experience – have you noticed that?

Even if you are a Lighthouse Keeper, it’s important to have some sense of connection on this planet. Actually, that should be: especially if you’re a Lighthouse Keeper! Indeed, beware the absolute loner who has no tie-ups at all….the person whom the neighbours have no idea who they are…for that can spell trouble.

Well, it seems that our goats knew a thing or two. So just take a moment to think about your ‘connectedness’ – and if it’s looking a little sparce, why not consider joining a club, volunteering with a group or finding some other way to connect to a few more people for chat, camaraderie and laughs. Go on, my friend. It’ll do you good!

Now, hopefully we’re many decades away from that scenario and there’s PLENTY of time ahead.

The thing is though – when you are finally there, thinking back on your life, I do not want you to have to use any of your last remaining energy on kicking yourself!

So now is the time to ask: what will you be very cross with YOU about, for NOT doing?   The saying is that we rarely regret actions we have taken, and are much more likely to regret the things we haven’t done.  Therefore, your task for today is to think what you haven’t done, that’s in your control, and that you’ll really regret not doing.  Little things or bigger things.  What are they and when could you do them (and, er, why haven’t you already done them)?  Get that Bucket List going pronto (ie things to do before we all kick the you-know-what)!

And whilst you’re about it…is there anything unsaid, that perhaps should be said, whilst you still can?  I’d also hate for you to be on that proverbial deathbed with a guilty conscience!  Actually Coco Chanel said:

“Guilt is perhaps the most painful companion of death!”

Ouch…and  a chap called Peter McWilliams said:

“Guilt is anger directed at ourselves.”     Ouch again.

I’d better stop this blog immediately, because there must be people I have to say sorry to, lots to tell ‘I love you’ – and a trip to Alaska to plan.  I really want to see Alaska and would be very cross with myself if I never make that happen!