There are times when it is good to be reminded of what is truly important and necessary in life, painful though this can be. As we explored the rustic wooden cottages on beautiful Seurassari Island and Open-Air Museum in Helsinki this weekend, we were all struck by the simplicity of life in bygone eras demonstrated by the spartan interiors lacking many “essentials” we enjoy today. The fixtures and fittings were basic yet often multi-functional and ingenious. Many of the cottages, brought from various regions all over Finland to be preserved, were very small abodes for peaceful visits to lakesides far from towns and cities. Others were larger multi-generational family log cabins originally homesteads or tenant farms. All were built by their owners and demonstrated a lifestyle at once both harder and simpler than our often fast-paced modern lives. Docents clad in period clothing explained who had inhabited the buildings and shared some insights of functionality and customs. Many of the homes had multiple generations and in-laws all living together which must have been interesting during the long Finnish winters and the highs and lows of typical human lives.
And yet, the reminder of being close to family never seemed as important to our little four family as we hosted Robyn’s mom these past five days. Back in California, Robyn’s dad suddenly struggled with a very serious health issue and we came very close to leaving to be by his side. We all lived hour by hour on both sides of the world. Thankfully, family rallied around and Robyn’s dad’s strong will served him well. I’m glad to say that he is now beginning to improve and recover.
Last night we all took time to write down five-ten positive things we’ve noticed or experienced about Finland and put them in a bowl. This was passed around and we took turns reading out the thoughts of others. We’d decided that we wanted to reflect on what we’d experienced in order to make our life back home both simpler and as meaningful as possible. This activity was the part of this process, and interestingly, there were not any mentions of things or stuff; it was all about ways of being. Interactions with people, especially family, friends, and those around us were prominent, as was our relationship with nature. Personal choices and conduct also featured for us.
For me, the Finns have taught that although they don’t really engage in frivolous surface chit-chat, they really value deeper connections and meaningful interactions with those dear to them. There is a kindness, patience, and non-judgmental side to their down to earth demeanor that is very refreshing and endearing. Our brush with mortality this weekend while somewhat offset by the close proximity of Robyn’s mom, was a tough but powerful reminder of what is truly important. I hope that although we will likely not all be living under the same roof (including my family back in England) we can still enjoy deep and valuable connections with each other and those around us while being the highest version of our best selves.
