In our most recent storytelling meeting, Jolene began the session by asking each participant to share their initial associations with the theme. The words ‘‘ridiculous”, “survival”, “cover-up”, “cartoon”, “daft”, “you’ve just got to laugh”, “joy”, “release”, “laughter”, “electric fence”, “dark” and “caring” were suggested.
As the meeting progressed and everyone shared memories and associations, she said she had a fun time weaving those words into the poem which follows, in the spirit of play inspired by the theme.
Photography and memorable photographs
Photographs are tangible records of past moments, precious in so many ways. In our meeting, we shared our thoughts about photographs special to us, the powerful memories they stir and the pleasure we get from taking them. We’re pleased now to share our words and images with you.
Continue reading “Photography and memorable photographs”Pets and other animals
So many interesting themes emerged as we talked about pets. The discussion prompted thoughts on the contradictory relationship humans can have with animals, and how our attitudes and behaviours towards animals are often shaped by our experiences, culture and background. Afterwards, some of us wrote up our responses to the theme in poetry or in prose. We hope you enjoy reading our memories and reflections.
Continue reading “Pets and other animals”Oceans and coastlines
On Dover Beach
“The sea is calm tonight.
The tide is full, the moon lies fair
Upon the straits; on the French coast the light
Gleams and is gone; the cliffs of England stand,
Glimmering and vast, out in the tranquil bay.
Come to the window, sweet is the night-air!…”
This famous poem by Matthew Arnold, read out to us by Jolene at the start of the session, really got us all thinking and sharing our thoughts and experiences of oceans and coastlines. Our responses were varied, as shown by the poems, memories and reflections which follow. We hope you enjoy reading them.
Continue reading “Oceans and coastlines”Kitchens
Memories stirring, emotions raising, ideas simmering: what a lot we cooked up as we shared our stories about kitchens, and the times we’ve spent in them!
What follows is a buffet set out with our stories, poetry and photographs for you. Bon appétit!
Continue reading “Kitchens”Working life
We found lots to say on this topic, at both the online and face-to-face sessions. “Variety” was one of the words that came up at the beginning, as most of us, now retired, looked back at our experiences of paid and unpaid work we’d had at different times of our lives. For some, it was easier to talk about short term, temporary jobs we’d had, at the beginning of our working lives, than about the jobs at which we’d worked over many years about which there’d be just too much to say! Also, as one member of the group put it, we never really stop working as we carry on using the skills that we’ve acquired throughout our lives in new situations we face.
The writing some of us have chosen to share in this blog post will give you a flavour of our discussions. Why not join us next time? You’d be very welcome.
Continue reading “Working life”The power of language
“Wow! What an amazing, and interesting session with Stories of Our lives” said Pauline Omoboye. “It felt good to welcome some new members to the group, including Yaron Matras, a retired professor of linguistics interested in people’s experiences of multilingualism.
We discussed the power of language and how it gives us an insight into our identity. There are many forms of communication and I believe all languages are equal. During the session in our breakout rooms we discussed what language meant to us. I chose to talk about ‘patois/creole’ also known as ‘broken English’. I spoke about my parents who are from Jamaica.”
Continue reading “The power of language”Small joys
It was so uplifting to spend time together sharing our thoughts on this topic. We laughed, we remembered, we reflected together. Our focus was on small things or moments that had brought us happiness. As you read the stories and poetry in this blog post, you’ll see how the topic led us on to deeper appreciation of our everyday lives and the ways in which we find happiness. As one member said, at the end of our meetings it feels like “you’ve been given a lovely warm hug”. We wish that for you too, as you read on, maybe enjoying a cup of tea or coffee as you do so.
Continue reading “Small joys”Significant buildings
Jolene asked us to relax, close our eyes and picture a building which held a special meaning for us. “Step inside“, she said, “how does it feel? what can you see? how does it smell? what memories come back to you?” Such a variety of thoughts and emotions were stirred by this exercise! Listen to a recording of some of our responses.
Read on to discover the poetry and prose inspired by our online and in-person meetings.
Continue reading “Significant buildings”Friendship
There is no measure for such things, For this all Nature slows and sings. from Friendship by Elizabeth Jennings (1926-2001)
So much is written and sung about romantic love, but love between friends often isn’t celebrated or acknowledged in the same way. In this blog post, listen to some of our conversations, read our stories and reflections on the theme, and share the joy we found in talking about the varied roles that friendship has played in our lives.
Continue reading “Friendship”
The Stories of Our Lives 