When we feel heard and valued, we find that we can do amazing things. Have you found that even the most optimistic among us begin to falter and slide, when integrity is challenged by the judgement and misunderstanding of others? I have seen this happen to people with great promise, who have been put upon … Continue reading When We Feel Heard And Valued
Authenticity
Why Do I Have A Blog?
In January 2015 I began the technological challenge of building a blog. For a few years before that, friends and family had suggested that I take my communication to a wider audience. Over many years, indeed since my teen years, people have suggested that I write my story and create stories out of my experiences … Continue reading Why Do I Have A Blog?
Hope Regained ~ A Poem
This poem was originally written without a title; a second version was written a few years later, given the title “Hope Regained”. This is the original version, with title added. * Hope Regained All alone, inside ice cold and sad tonight, here in this empty room; Listening to the sounds of passing cars and … Continue reading Hope Regained ~ A Poem
My Journey Into The University of Life
Having delivered my son, the youngest of my two children, to a prestigious international university at the weekend, I find myself ready to share the thoughts that are streaming through my mind right now ... keeping the feelings of emotional adjustment at bay, while I picture our son adjusting to his new life in a … Continue reading My Journey Into The University of Life
Courage To Be Real
I recently received a message from someone I have never met, whom I learnt has had a very challenging life and has a very sad childhood story. The message was so heartfelt and so grateful ... it moved me beyond tears ... this post is a result of receiving that message. Apparently my 'being real' … Continue reading Courage To Be Real
Sunday Morning Mindfulness
Quietly and sleepily sipping my first cup of Earl Grey tea early this morning, I slowly and absorbingly read the pages of a beautiful hardback book given to me by my mother and stepfather a few years ago. I think it was a Christmas present - there will be a note inside to tell me, … Continue reading Sunday Morning Mindfulness
Truth And Love
This piece is raw and unedited. It was written straight from the heart. Truth And Love When I was a little girl, we had a black "houseboy" called John who cried when we left our home in Natal, to go to Cape Town. He had been my closest ally and loved us all … Continue reading Truth And Love
A Poem To A Young Man Entering The Army
A Poem To A Young Man Entering The Army In South Africa Brother, for years we were told, But never really believed, That one day you, too, would have to join The long, frightened queue Of young men, new recruits of the Defence Force. The Organisation, so powerfully strong, Snatching, from our arms, … Continue reading A Poem To A Young Man Entering The Army
The Holly Tree Tales 