MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE

A song, the loneliness and the joy of helping to be helped

Dastilige Nevante is an artist known for his unique style, which even combines elements of Rococo with modern techniques. His work is inspired by old masters, such as Giambattista Tiepolo. However, he does not try to emulate their mastery through the use of natural pigments and traditional preparation techniques, but digitally. By illustrating the themes of Meeting Benches, a digital platform dedicated to artists, thinkers and dreamers from all over the world, Nevante helps to share art, stories and thoughts. Meeting Benches, in fact, celebrates art in all its forms, offering a space to explore the works of artists from different disciplines. Are you interested in any specific aspect of Nevante’s or Meeting Benches’ work? This article, for example, talks about solitude and awareness.

Mindfulness is essential for our well-being and personal development. Being mindful means having a clear understanding of ourselves, our thoughts, emotions and behaviors. This allows us to make more thoughtful decisions and live more authentically and fulfilling. Mindfulness improves the management of emotions, promotes positive change and increases concentration, helps us focus on what is important and facilitates communication. Mindfulness and solitude are closely linked and can influence each other. Mindfulness allows us to recognize and accept our feelings of loneliness without judging them. Spending time alone can be an opportunity to reflect on ourselves, our desires and needs. Solitude can foster creativity, allowing us to explore new ideas and projects without external distractions. Being aware of our emotions and needs helps us build more authentic and meaningful relationships with others.

A song by The Police written by Sting was released in 1979 as the lead single from their second studio album. That song tells the story of a man stranded on an island who sends a message in a bottle, hoping to find someone who understands his feelings of isolation. A year later, he discovers one hundred billion bottles washed up on the shore, realizing that many others share his feelings of loneliness. If you want to read and listen the full lyrics of Message in a Bottle, click here. You don’t have to be shipwrecked on a remote island in the sea to experience lonely days. More loneliness than you can bear, you may find it where and when you are not prepared to deal with it. Who has never experienced the loss of a loved one, or the problems connected to some form of addiction? In those moments you would like someone who listens to your lament of loneliness. Imagine a true friend, someone who lets you express your feelings without interrupting you. Someone who encourages you to seek professional help, who stays in touch with you and does not stop supporting you, because even small gestures can relieve some of your stress.

Volunteering can be the alternative to the SOS in a bottle. Volunteering allows you to meet new people and create meaningful connections. Helping others can give you a sense of accomplishment and purpose in life. This can be especially helpful for those who feel lost or directionless. Participating in volunteer activities can reduce levels of stress and anxiety. Working together with other volunteers towards a common goal can create a strong sense of community and mutual support. If you are thinking about starting to volunteer, there are many organizations that could benefit from your help. Not only will you be doing good for others, but you may also discover a new sense of well-being and personal satisfaction. Here is a short overview that explores both the psychological and the practical and educational aspects of volunteering. If you are interested in how volunteering can be therapeutic, they could offer a lot of useful information. Here are two books that deal with the topic of volunteering and its therapeutic impact. The book “Psychology of Volunteering” explores the motivations, roles and impact of volunteers on various aspects of community life. “Volunteering. A Resource for Oneself and Others“, instead, examines how volunteering can shape personal identity through caregiving and support for others. Do you already have a type of volunteering in mind that you would like to do? Start with one click.

“Red Cross and Red Crescent“, the largest volunteer movement in the world, with millions of active volunteers in almost every country. “Doctors Without Borders“, to provide medical assistance in humanitarian emergencies around the world. “World Wildlife Fund“, if you want to contribute to the conservation of nature and reduction of the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth. Contact “Save the Children“, if you want to help improve the lives of children. If you prefer to dedicate yourself to safeguarding the rights of children and improving their living conditions around the world, nothing better than UNICEF. “ActionAid” could also welcome you with open arms to fight poverty and social injustice. Contact “Emergency“, to contribute to free and high-quality medical care for victims of war, landmines and poverty. These organizations offer many volunteer opportunities in various sectors. If you are interested in participating, you can visit their websites for more information. Be conscious, you will help yourself by helping others. Do you already have an organization in your city that you would like to collaborate with?