Adrian Barich: What spending time with the incredible Noah Johnson at Telethon taught me about gratitude

I had an bit of an epiphany over the weekend. It involved Telethon and a couple of special people I met.

This will sound a bit corny and maybe even a bit egotistical, but I think I’ve discovered a new way of living. Just a small achievement, I admit, but let me explain.

There’s a concept I’ve embraced called “romanticise your life”. Now, that sounds a bit flowery for me so I’ve Barra-rised it and made my catchphrase, “celebrate your life”.

Being involved in Telethon led to this awakening, I suppose you could call it — especially knocking around with a little cancer fighter named Noah Johnson.

You may have seen his picture was on the front page of The West Australian last week.

Sunrise host Nat Barr broke down in tears after seeing that image, whilst for me, I had a moment of clarity (and maybe the odd tear, too).

It was a reminder to many of us that we indeed live fortunate lives.

So my thinking is, how about we embrace the idea of making everyday moments more special?

And what’s a good place to start, you ask? Well, how about just sniffing stuff in appreciation of the smell? Coffee, wine, candles (how good is coffee?!)

Just try to find wonder in everything you do or see.

I know that could be considered a bit over the top but it’s the only way I can think to express it.

Really focus on the small things, which at another time you’d call insignificant or even mundane.

How good is that park across the road? Look at those birds in the trees. How cute is that dog?

Make an effort to find something amazing in every part of your life, and even in everyone you meet. Be like Darryl Kerrigan in The Castle. Understand how lucky you are.

Remember “how’s the serenity?”

Or this from Darryl: “What do you call this, love?”

“Chicken,” his wife Sal responds.

“And it’s got something sprinkled on it,” says Darryl. “Seasoning,” explains Sal.

“Seasoning! Looks like everybody’s kicked a goal,” her grateful husband exclaims.

It’s the Kerrigan philosophy. Practice slowing down and being present so you can cultivate a deeper sense of the wonderful things around you.

Take a deep breath and look for the beauty in your surroundings.

How’s that tree?! What about those wildflowers! It’s all about training your mind. I know this might sound like a psychedelics moment but as many would know, songs can also deliver beautiful moments.

Step outside and maybe even say it out loud like Darryl would. Try using “how good’s that?” or “smell this, love”. Treat each day like you’re the Kerrigans when they’re going to Bonnie Doon.

Just like Telethon, this attitude is a great way to enhance our sense of community. Try saying hello or even just smile at anyone you see today. Hell, maybe lash out and have a chat.

It’ll help your local community feel less divided, less lonely and make life less about you as an individual and your own little family.

Telethon does that too, because it’s about something beyond yourself. Bigger than yourself.

It promotes kindness and compassion and most of all, it helps put a smile on the face of kids such as Noah who have been handed challenges that are so unfair.

That brave boy’s demeanour is incredible and his ability (and that of all the sick kids, really) to laugh in the face of everything that has been thrown his way is truly inspiring.

And lastly, a shout out to to all the loved ones looking after sick family members; the caregivers whose monumental efforts and sacrifices often seem to go unnoticed.

Be assured your impact is immeasurable but is incredibly valued and admired.