I watched a video of myself today. This is something I would usually shy away from, but on this occasion it was different. Because it was a video of me doing my first ever talk to an audience. Once I’d stopped judging my appearance and wondering why I do that weird lopsided thing with my mouth, I allowed myself to appreciate what I had achieved. Even I thought I came across well, and that I had … [Read more...] about The day I finally found my voice…
Pearl Within blog archive
Why it’s time to throw away the script…
Last week I stood up in front of a group of people, most of whom I didn’t know, and spoke without a script for about three minutes. This may not seem like a tall order to many of you, but for me it was a big deal. It took every fibre of my being to break through my resistance and walk the few yards from seat to spotlight. Why? Because I’m a writer. I enjoy the comfort of the written word. … [Read more...] about Why it’s time to throw away the script…
Forget reality TV, this is real life in all its glory
Last month I wrote a post about the return of the Up Series - the pioneering documentary strand that began in 1964 and followed the lives of 14 Brits from the age of seven, revisiting them every seven years. The first part of the latest instalment, 56 Up, was screened this week. I was struck by the fact that there had been less drama in the lives of the participants since they appeared in 49 Up … [Read more...] about Forget reality TV, this is real life in all its glory
Welcome your emotions like unexpected guests
Welcome to poetry corner. I’m by no means an expert but I admire the poet’s ability to communicate volumes in a few verses. Of all the poems that have resonated with me in recent times, this one by prolific 13th-century mystic Rumi really hits the mark: THE GUEST HOUSE This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary … [Read more...] about Welcome your emotions like unexpected guests
What happens after you get what you always wanted?
Today I am going to write a post about football. Only it’s not really about football, rather like Field of Dreams isn’t really about baseball. As those of you who follow the ups and downs of the Premiership will know, on Sunday Manchester City won the title for the first time in 44 years. Not only that, they won in the dying moments of extra time, and in doing so snatched the trophy from under … [Read more...] about What happens after you get what you always wanted?
The joy of finding wisdom in your family tree
I love the BBC genealogy programme Who Do You Think You Are?, which takes well-known people deep into their family history and on an emotional journey that often changes their lives for ever. There is something truly profound about uncovering your roots, finding out who your ancestors were and what challenges they faced in their lives. I’ve dipped in and out of my family history over the years … [Read more...] about The joy of finding wisdom in your family tree