“Stay Close To People Who Feel Like Sunlight”

“Sometimes, we really do need a breath of fresh air. A change of environment, and some laughter and colour along with it. “

– Stephanie Loo

---

As all of us have been bracing the pandemic this past year, some of us may have had it far worse than others. We’ve all had our fair share of ups and downs, and I – too, have come to realise that every day truly is a gift. One great thing (apart from many other great things) that has resulted from this new norm, is a newfound circle of friendship.

I can’t recall how or when this little group formed – but I must admit, it has brought so much positivity into my life. I believe it started off just a few acquaintances motivating each other to exercise together and to ‘live healthy and happy’. But with the passage of time, it became so much more than that, and I am glad it did.

One day, I found this quote: –

“Stay close to people who feel like sunlight.”

– Xan Oku

It really hit home.

Personally, I love making new friends and it’s not out of character for me to start having a warm conversation with a stranger whom I’ve just met. (My dear husband commonly refers to home-bakers and online sellers whom I make my first purchases from as my “friends”). I treasure friendship and I believe – a good, strong one, can really get you by in life and be that pillow of comfort when you take a stumble.

– Short clip taken during one of my adventures to Sentosa Island Nature Reserve –

When I head out on my usual morning runs, I love the view of the sun as it peaks out from behind the clouds as it slowly wakes from its slumber. Like a good morning stretch, the sun rays pushes the blanket of clouds away and starts warming the earth. I love the feeling of the first sunlight as it hits my skin, that fuzzy and tingly sensation that just melts every negativity away. That is exactly how I feel when I am around my loved ones, my dear friends and now, this newfound circle.

How will you know if you have found your ‘sunlight people’ or person?

• Well, for one, just being around them makes your day!
• They don’t ever make you feel less of yourself, but instead nurture and respect your vulnerability
• You can be candid with them during your good or bad days (and it’s okay!)
• You help one another adapt and grow and continue to embrace what life throws at you
• You feel safe
• There is a strong element of respect and holding true to each another’s personal boundaries
• They are humble and appreciative of life, and makes you (or inspires you!) to feel the same way
• You could simply be the best version of yourself every single time!

I am happy that I have found this new ‘sunlight circle’ and I always look forward to the little adventures that we have together. The early morning weekend hikes and walks, and the fun and laughter from the post-workout breakfasts.

Each time is different, but the same warm feeling remains.

Finding your ‘sunlight people’ or person is so worthwhile and I am always on the search for them or being someone’s sunlight person too. I hope that you, dear reader will continue to nourish yours, and find more of these amazing people along your journey in life.

– Photo collage of our weekend stint to Sentosa Island Nature Reserve (Jan 2021) –

_{Photo credits: Elize, Selina & June}