"Your heart knows the way" Rumi
In dedicating this blog to her dear friend Nikky, Sara wanted to express her gratitude for Nikky's love and knowledge of literature, as well as her generosity in gifting beautiful books.
In a world often overshadowed by hustle culture and self-doubt, finding moments of pure self-love can feel like an elusive quest. Yet, within the pages of Charlie Mackesy's enchanting book, "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse," lies a treasure trove of wisdom that gently guides us back to the profound truth: we are worthy of love, just as we are.
Set against a backdrop of stunning illustrations and poignant dialogue, Mackesy's characters embark on a journey of self-discovery that resonates deeply with readers of all ages. At its core, this book is a celebration of friendship, kindness, and the transformative power of love - themes that are particularly poignant as we embrace the spirit of Valentine's month.
The relationship between the Boy and his unlikely companions - the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse - serves as a mirror to our own journey towards self-acceptance. As they traverse through life's uncertainties, they encounter moments of vulnerability and doubt, yet they always find solace in each other's presence. In one touching scene, the Mole asks, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" To which the Boy responds, "Kind." This simple exchange speaks volumes about the essence of self-love - it starts with being kind to ourselves.
Mackesy's gentle prose reminds us that self-love isn't about achieving perfection or meeting unrealistic standards; it's about embracing our flaws and recognising our inherent worthiness. The Fox, wise beyond his years, shares a powerful insight: "Sometimes, just getting up and carrying on is brave and magnificent." In a world that often equates success with external achievements, this reminder to honour our resilience and perseverance is truly liberating.
Moreover, the book encourages us to cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity about ourselves. The Horse, with his boundless optimism, encourages the Boy to explore the depths of his own heart: "What is the bravest thing you've ever said?" he asks. The Boy reflects, "Help." This moment of vulnerability underscores the importance of reaching out for support and embracing our own humanity. 
As we immerse ourselves in the whimsical world of "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse," we are reminded of the magic that resides within each of us. Mackesy's exquisite illustrations breathe life into his characters, inviting us to see ourselves reflected in their journey. Whether it's the Mole's comforting embrace of the Fox's unwavering loyalty, we are reminded that we are never alone on this path towards self-discovery.
Beyond the pages of the book, Mackesy's message of self-love reverberates in our daily lives. In a society that often priorities external validation, it's easy to lose sight of our own worth. However, "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse'' serves as a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and embrace the beauty of our own existence.
This Valentine's month, let us embark on a journey of self-love inspired by the timeless wisdom of Mackesy's beloved characters. Let us celebrate our quirks, our vulnerabilities, and our inherent strength. And above all, let us remember that love begins within - a radiant flame that illuminates our path and inspires us to embrace the fullness of who we are.
In the words of the Horse, "The greatest illusion," said the mole, "is that life should be perfect." "Oh yes," said the horse. "It is the very pursuit of perfection that stops us from being truly free."
So, let us release the illusion of perfection and embrace the messy, beautiful journey of self-discovery. For in that embrace, we find the true essence of love - a love that knows no bounds, a love that starts and ends with ourselves.
By Durga Gokul