Recommendation from a character! #6
Today we have a rather unusual but very useful recommendation (especially for those who tend to overwork themselves). The king of France, Louis XIV, from the story Vying for Versailles, will give us his wise advice!
"When I find the burdens of state too great, I walk in the gardens at Versailles. My favorite fountain is the Fountain of Apollo. The final plans haven’t been unveiled yet, of course. In my father’s time, it was known as the Lake of Swans. I remember looking out upon it from the chateau as a very small child, wondering when my father would return from his ride, when he would next take me to hunt. The swans’ white elegance made me wonder if I could transform Versailles’ simplicity into a grandeur that reflects my own and glorifies all France. I am working on the redesign currently. It will display Apollo springing into the Heavens.
I find that even a few minutes alone in nature, listening to the sounds of the birds and the fountains, can provide me great solace. I often return to council sessions and political debates reenergized. But more, these quiet moments away from the excitement of the court can be spent with someone valuable. I treasure taking quiet walks with someone I love. If you feel stressed, tired, or sad, I heartily recommend taking five minutes from your day to seek out the nature closest to you. Set aside all others—all thoughts, concerns, worries that may be pressing on you—and listen. Listen for the sound of water."