Would it help to set out a series of goals? I freeze to think about it. Family, boats, exercise, houses, finances, business... I know the theory and it is sound - as far as theories go - but there is a nagging sense that to declare these goals is to close my eyes to truth. None matter, in the grand scheme of things, so I suppose it should ( Read more... )

Watching my heroes fall is painful and it is shaking me to the core. I fear others may observe my own downfall.

"We've got hot chocolate, tea, Bovril...we'll have a full English tomorrow morning. Got to have a full English, haven't you ( Read more... )

As I sat and listened to her music, it occurred to me our family has been in a process of decline for as long as I can remember. How I would love to see the days of growth and building rekindled, to spread the wings and to hear hallways filled with feet and with song. The rustle of wind in an orchard, the lapping of water against the dock and a ( Read more... )

Life is so much more difficult when I take it seriously. In particular, the fear of disturbing the status quo and stepping into the unknown can cripple my ability to take chances and recognise them as new opportunities rather than threats ( Read more... )

It is so difficult to be objective at times. Even when I consciously count and list the achievements of the last few weeks, they seem inadequate. No matter how far I run, how much time I dedicate to my job or what I do to help others, I am disappointed in myself ( Read more... )

There is no phrase more evocative of reckless heroism than: "The Charge of the Light Brigade."

Walking across London on a cold, grey day I thought to myself: "Even a short absence amplifies this city's appeal." I had returned from a few days in Barcelona and took particular pleasure in the square, solid bricks and stones of London's buildings, arranged around the refreshing greens and spring colours of the garden squares. There is a ( Read more... )

I'm conscious of an increasing tendency to replicate the remembered habits of my Dad. I find myself wondering whether this results from an inevitable acceptance of their wisdom, or a failing of youthful creativity and a growing aversion to risk? It is very comfortable to copy the behaviours of your parents because, by definition, they are what ( Read more... )

Andre Rieu in concert is a grotesque cupcake pantomime.