February is supposed to be the month of love. I feel like our nation needs a big hug. The last six days have been an utter shock for not only South Africans, but globally too.

There isn’t any place I go where people are not talking about Oscar Pistorius and Reeva Steenkamp. I was standing in the queue to pay for my lunch and people in front and behind me were talking about it. I was sitting in my hair salon and every person that walked in spoke about it.

The news has absolutely affected everyone and I take comfort in knowing the truth will come out. It always does, some way or another.

I’m sending my condolences to the Steenkamps, and to all of her close friends and family. I’m also thinking of the Pistorius’ family and what they are going through too. It is just such a tragedy and it has absolutely shaken me to my core.

I said it before and I’ll say it again. We all need a hug. We need to hug and love those around us. We need to focus on what’s important and appreciate what we have and who we have in our lives. Life is short and most of the time we fill it with such nonsense or we put energy into things that don’t truly matter.

Take time for yourself. It’s okay to be selfish in this way. Have a good cry, unashamedly, if you need to. Take time and spend it with your loved ones and your animals. Don’t hold grudges. Apologise. Forgive. Don’t be so quick to judge. Do the things that you’ve always wanted to do and don’t hold back. Take a risk. Be kind and polite. Think about others. Encourage people; encourage yourself. Smile – it’s addictive. Be thankful.

Express how you feel, even if it leaves you vulnerable. In vulnerability there is strength.

Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear that special dress and perfume. Don’t save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

I’m sending you all a big virtual hug.

Much love,

Bailey