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!
Continue reading “Kitchens”Rainy Days
Sometimes though I have no clue where the theme for discussion will lead, I just know that it will be wonderful. This month the group’s suggestion of Rainy Days was one of those occasions.
We found that rain has so many associations that the conversation became an ever-deepening reservoir of ideas as they poured down from every direction. (Sorry, couldn’t help it).
We talked about our personal and cultural relationship to rain, how it is a carrier of meaning and history, the literary and musical symbolism of it and we even created a playlist for you to share some of that richness of meaning https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2IwWWI6NjxMV08zZBCN5QM?si=e1f11f61748c4115
Read on to see some of the variety of thoughts that emerged….
Continue reading “Rainy Days”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”Winter and Christmas Intergenerational Story Exchange at Ascension Church Hulme
A number of The Stories Of Our Lives group helped me host an intergenerational event on the theme of Winters and Christmases past at Ascension Church Hulme recently, as part of Hulme’s Winter Fest event.
Continue reading “Winter and Christmas Intergenerational Story Exchange at Ascension Church Hulme”A Joyful Visual Arts Event!
As a follow-up to our last theme for discussion, Small Joys, local visual artist, Su Vosper, came along to share her skills and inspiration with the group. You can listen to the audio of that previous meeting, shown in two parts below.
Su and I brought along a selection of materials for the group to experiment with as we explored how to express what brings us happiness, contentment and gratitude.
Continue reading “A Joyful Visual Arts Event!”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”
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