An unexpected joyful moment comes to mind as I reflect on my experience of the recent damage caused by Storm Éowyn, with hundreds of thousands of homes that were left without electricity. It occurred when my brother John gifted me with a torchlight after our house was two days without electricity (a fallen tree in our area cut though a cable).

I had a conversation with my brother earlier that day: I mentioned that I needed candlelight to eat my dinner and read before bedtime. John clearly listened to my experience because a short while later he said, “Here’s the torchlight to use. It’s fully charged”. I was pleasantly surprised by the gesture, and I thanked him as he returned to his own home abroad. I felt as though I was gifted with another Christmas present!

Continue reading “My brother’s kindness during Storm Éowyn” →

“Stop, Gavin. Be Joyful!” “Be Playful!” “Focus on the Positive!” These words were boldly directed towards me as I jumped ship and started to write for children.

I was startled by the punchy forthrightness; I could ignore the first person thinking she didn’t really know me but when three people pressed me on the matter I had to stand up and pay attention!

My children’s book adventure was as much a surprise to me as it was for everyone else who were used to my writing on finding gratitude in all things from an adult perspective. But here I suggest 3 things that made it all worth it:

Continue reading “Thrilling shock of play” →