It was moving and thought-provoking to share our thoughts on the value of friendship. As you read on, you’ll see how some of us were inspired to express our feelings through poetry or prose. There are celebrations of, and tributes to, individual friends. Some tell of specific moments and some describe longstanding friendships. Then follow thoughtful reflections on the roles played by different types of friendships, the varied impacts they may have upon us or we have on them as we grow and change.
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Oral Histories and Futures storytelling
In the ever-evolving narrative of our lives, the past and future co-exist in a delicate balance, each informing the other. Our recent ‘Oral Histories and Futures’ workshop, led by esteemed University of Manchester researchers Liz Ackerley and Laura Fenton, illustrated this interplay beautifully. They inspired us to go on a temporal journey, where we explored our personal histories tied to places that hold special meaning, to share and reflect collectively, and then to look thoughtfully toward what the future might hold.
At the workshop’s conclusion, we were presented with a variety of expressive pathways:
- Form a narrative about a memorable everyday place from your past.
- Pen a letter to the future, possibly addressed to a special location you have in mind.
- Create a tale that envisions the future of a particular place.
- Or, feel free to create something unique that the workshop/ theme sparks in you.
Inspired by these prompts, the following pieces of writing were created. Continue reading to enjoy our collective memories and forward-looking visions. We welcome you to add your voice to the conversation in the comments below. If you’re intrigued by Liz and Laura’s innovative work and methodologies, you can reach out to them at austerityalters@manchester.ac.uk or follow their updates at @austerityalters
Continue reading “Oral Histories and Futures storytelling”The role of humour in our lives
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”Family and Family Histories
This month’s storytelling sessions on family and history struck an emotional chord with me. The key words of ‘Quiet,’ ‘Missing People,’ ‘Resilience,’ and ‘Regrets of not Listening’ were especially evocative and stirring. It made me reflect on my own family’s narratives and how they’ve shaped my outlook.
Continue reading “Family and Family Histories”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”Contemplation and the Art of Doing Nothing
The most recent session of The Stories of Our Lives provided a beautiful contrast to the previous one. In June’s session, we discussed the numerous benefits of movement, while this month, we had the opportunity to reflect on the wonders of doing “nothing.” Join us as we delve into the meaningful thoughts that emerged from exploring this seemingly inactive state.
Continue reading “Contemplation and the Art of Doing Nothing”Movement and Exercise
We had two brilliant discussions about movement this month, one on Zoom and one in person, where we incorporated a walk-and-talking section, as well as a ride-and-talking for some happy passengers! Thanks to Sheila of the trishaw ride service from Chorlton Bike Deliveries.
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!
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