AND FINALLY Look for signs that lift you up

ARE you the kind of person who keeps lucky talismans and maybe hangs a dreamcatcher over the bed? Yes, me too. And why not? Whatever gets you through the day.

Symbols have been important to humankind for centuries and can still seem to possess a magical power. So I thought I’d share the little motivational ‘still life’ I have placed right under my large computer screen, within my sight all day long.

The merry, metal bicycling skeleton is mounted on a sandstone base. Next to him I’ve placed a little simplified angel, carved in amethyst (both pictured) and sent as a gift by loyal Mail reader Valerie H.

Some of you will understand the meaning right away. The smiling skeleton invites me to wave back at him every day, reminding me to make the most of life while I can.

The ancient symbols of Memento Mori (in churches and art) could be skulls, bones or hourglasses, warning ‘Remember you must die’ — so stop sinning and live a better life.

But my little chap’s message is more encouraging — telling me to make each minute count and waste no time on negativity. He says: ‘Go for it! Love life!’

It’s an important lesson when something or someone is niggling and bringing you down. Yes, life is too short.

The lovely amethyst angel (purple, my favourite colour!) is calming — a symbol of all that is good and beautiful in the world, and the love (in so many forms) that can lift us close to heaven.

‘ What will be will be’ it reassures, ‘but don’t worry — you are looked after’.

Cheerfulness and calm. Yes, a useful sight each day.

÷ Bel answers readers’ questions on emotional and relationship problems each week. Write to Bel Mooney, Daily Mail, 2 Derry Street, london W8 5TT, or email bel.mooney@dailymail.co.uk. Names are changed to protect identities. Bel reads all letters but regrets she cannot enter into personal correspondence.