Some days the Sad is heavy, sharp-cornered and rough. I can’t pretend it’s easy to carry. ‘Cheer up,’ says the world. ‘Smile. You’re not trying hard enough – be jolly, be grateful, choose happy. You should be ashamed of that Sad, it’ll spread.’ Listen world, I’ve had enough. It simply isn’t fair. You made your […]
Core issue
100 words on the responsibility of being a tree parent After three years, the tree is taller than me. Inevitably upwards, like children, if somewhat quieter. The stake planted for support, redundant. And this year there is fruit. Two perfect apples: brave and strong. Magnificent. A triumph of teamwork – me with encouragement and […]
Medalling in kindness
I could forgive the verbifying of ‘medal’ if the clamber up the podium was to receive a prize for kindness. A triathlon for big-hearted, not the fainthearted – training is tough. Compassion not rescuing, empathy not pity, and thoughtfulness not judgement. Bootcamps to be better – leave your ego at the door. Vulnerability for victory, […]
A debate
Bear in the moon-washed woods is claws-deep in warm guts. Making blood pies of forest soil. Feasting though his ears twitch: Something’s there. Man in the wild woods chooses solitude. Thoughts and a Thermos for company. Escaping the prod and pry of domesticity. A stick breaks: Something’s there. Bear in the moon-washed woods […]
May warning
I see the season with its pea-green promise. Beguiling spring, scattering glitter on grass when we wake. I’m nose to nose with summer’s fragrant march. Yet I hear that subterranean preparation – stretching, bulging – and I whisper that I’m not ready. You might be trusting your tender flesh to breezy tickles and sunshine cuddles, […]