In my early twenties I was companion, assistant and carer to a disabled travel and food writer called Quentin Crewe. Crewe, a father of five, was famous for many things but most relevant here was his amazing large circle of friends around the world. So when he told a story about someone particularity famous you knew it was first hand. This is one of my absolute favourites as it has a punch line that has become a bit of a mantra in my life. Also having shared this story a few times verbally I have been amazed to see the difference it can make to how people feel about themselves. Now don’t be tempted to look to the end as it won’t make sense. Happiness is the journey not the destination!! So Crewe was staying with Peter Sellers at his Gstaad home. Someone at the dinner table asked how he, Sellers had come up with the Indian character he played in The Party. Sellers replied that he had been in India working on a film, staying in a smart Taj hotel he had a chai wallah who came into his room with his tea every morning. He was apparently always in the best of humour. Smiling broadly and clearly good in his skin, Sellers became intrigued and so finally ventured to ask his wallah how he came to be in such good humour every day. This was his reply. (Imagine thick Indian accent a la sellers playing Bakshi) “Vell mr sellers. Every morning I get up and go into my bathroom. Wash my face, brush my teeth and then look at myself in the mirror and say – There you are again my fine fellow” This idea of greeting oneself with a smile every morning for me goes to the heart of being present in the now, of practising self acceptance.. It’s why I try to do this as often as I can so that I leave the house without any negative feelings I may have about myself. So that I may greet others with a smile, presence and acceptance. If you try this please let me know how it goes.
Christian Banfield
Director & Photographer
