Change of venue

I'm now blogging on Wordpress - at least for a while.  For a few weeks I've been running both, but that's not a sensible or viable long-term approach.  So from now on, you can find my ramblings at:

http://endlesslyrestless.wordpress.com/

I hope this doesn't cause inconvenience for those who pass this way from time to time.

Inspired

Two visits to Perth Concert Hall over the past few days have really inspired me.  During the first visit, I had a quick look at some of the images on display as part of the Perthshire Photographic Society exhibition.  (Note to self - go back for a longer look.)

I was entranced by Jean Burhouse’s montage of Perth buildings - and I spent a chunk of this morning snapping away - I might post some of my efforts later.

The second visit was last night to see the magnificent Perth Youth Orchestra annual concert.  I was blown away by some of the performances, but what made my night was the huge smile from daughter-child as the orchestra stood in response to the rapturous applause at the end.  A moment of magic!

Fun in the sun

Ross County 2 - Celtic 0

The wee team triumph! Fantastic.

Not only did they win the game, they were the better team. The first division minnows outplayed the Premier giants.

And... this wasn’t a midweek replay on a sodden pitch at a tiny football ground - it was a showpiece semi-final at the national stadium, in bright sunshine. Big stage, big occasion, huge performance by County.

I should note that I’m not a Ross County fan, but I do like to see the underdog come out on top - and this was an epic tale of the underdog. A cup shock that will become a legend.

So what was the difference between the two teams? For me, the key to County’s success was having fun. They seemed to enjoy the occasion, and played with a freedom that created confidence. By contrast, Celtic seemed to be playing with the fear of failure.

I also see this scenario being played out at work. Those who are afraid to make a mistake, whose goal is compliance with the rules and minimum expectations rarely (actually, never) flourish. Those who take a few risks, follow their instincts and enjoy what they’re doing seem to generate much more productivity. Aye, it also applies to me - I get much more achieved, and much more satisfaction when I have fun, use my creativity and flair, and challenge a few norms along the way; than when I fall into the despair of box ticking and paper pushing. So next time that I’m in that pit, I’ll remind myself of Ross County, and (hopefully) put a smile on my face and some freedom into my work.

(By the way, I’m looking forward to an all first division final. So tomorrow I’ll be cheering for Raith Rovers - and I don’t support them either!)

Easter images: Revealing

The Supper at Emmaus

Caravaggio

Easter images: Rising

The Crucified and Risen Christ

Lyn Constable Maxwell

Easter images: Puzzling

St Martin-in-the-fields

Trafalgar Square, London

Easter images: Suffering

Wine Crucifix

Arnulf Rainer

Easter images: Breaking bread

Communion sculpture by Stephen Cox

Newcastle Cathedral