Khaya Ronkainen

Reciprocity

Posted on 08/02/2019 by Khaya Ronkainen

1. SM Detox

I’m convinced social media detox is something I need to do often. I love the feeling of not being constantly digitally connected, with the exception of the blogs.

Kyra, who blogs at Life, Art, and Chocolate, recently said something that resonated with me in her The Greater Disconnect series, “Social media became a place of ‘I have, and you haven’t, but don’t you wish you had?’ and ‘Me too, we’re in the same group and all those others are missing out!’” To read her sobering account on social media and self-worth, or just to admire her amazing art, visit her blog.

2. The joy of watching sunsets

I’ve never been a camper, and I’m still not. We are not buying a caravan either. But I enjoyed our camping holiday. It is one of the loveliest ways of exploring Finnish nature. Water (sea, lake or river) is a focal feature in most campsites. The ambiance is just perfect for rekindling romance.

3. I’m still reading

At the moment, I’m enthralled by Mrs O’s Becoming. I find her story really inspiring, and a written with such grace and sincerity. I’ll do a write up soon, I hope, on five books I’ve found most impactful this summer.

4. Oh, how I love the smell of roses

It’s no secret, I love the countryside. The unhurried rhythm, unscheduled activities, catching up with friends who are also on holiday, and spending time with my loving in-laws are some of things I’m grateful for. The scent of roses become even sweeter, when surrounded by loved ones.

5. “Reciprocity is not mandatory”

… yet I know its importance, when it comes to maintaining relations and staying in touch with communities. I read somewhere that when it comes to blogging, growing one’s readership is more important than being loyal to your “few” existing readers. I’m of a different opinion.

I spoke about my cutting back on blogging here, because of a new undertaking or rather going back to the old new world of business. So, I’ll be leaning more on reciprocity, that is, giving back or spreading the love.

So, I’m interested to know, in what ways do you like to get exposure on the blogs and social media? I’m asking this so I know how to support you my fellow writer and blogger for your consistent support of my modest blog.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

Occasionally, I share five random things I’m reading, watching, doing and thinking about. You’re most welcome to join the conversation.

Poetry

Falling into Rhythm

Posted on 07/24/2019 by Khaya Ronkainen

Inaudible pulse—
The beat gets louder
Rivals constant noise.
I pick up the rhythm
And out of self, I dance.

For Midweek Motif, Dance, at Poets United.

a-not-so-short note: This is a timely and relevant prompt. But why? Well, because dance is the rhythm of life, mine anyway.

For a significant amount of time, I fell out of tune. Luckily, I eventually figured what I was missing; the ability to choose my own song and dance to my heart’s content.

As a result, I’m returning to my other vocation; the innovative world of business as from next month. It’s going to be busy, and my blogging schedule is going to be erratic until I fall into a comfortable pace as in the line dance featured above.

Simply put I’m not going to be able to keep up with all prompts, challenges and conversations around creative writing. So, if you don’t see me around your cyber home or I take long to respond, please don’t take it personally. It’s simply business. 😀

Random Things

Hiking is My Faith

Posted on 07/19/2019 by Khaya Ronkainen

Someone recently asked what does my Instagram bio, Hiking is my faith, and I’m its devotee, mean. So, this week I decided to share why hiking is good for my soul:

1. It helps me reconnect with myself

This is how I shut down the “noise”. I trek miles just to listen to my inner voice.

2. It makes me happy

Comfort after walking in the rain, all day.

It’s the simple things, really. If I have a shelter, clothes are dry and stomach is full, I’m happy as Larry.

3. It boost my creativity

When the story burns, no amount of mosquitoes can distract; literally and metaphorically speaking.

4. It reminds me to be grateful

It’s easy to take things you have for granted. I tell you, a lavatory in the wild is a luxury!

5. It helps me to let go of hurt and anger

By the time I reach a summit, my world is as it should be; in harmony. Btw, there’s a story behind that photo; a memoir I decided not to publish, after all. And there’s a story too, behind that decision.

Now your turn, in what ways do you take care of yourself?

Occasionally, I share five random things I’m reading, watching, doing and thinking about. You’re most welcome to join the conversation.