I’ve been asked on numerous occasions now, why is it that I write?
Good question, let’s hope I’ve done some profound reflection and have some insightful responses to share.
In a nutshell, I’ve always written, some musings on paper, on Serviette, or anything actually, including the chalkboard. I remember clearly the smell of chalk, the feeling of the chalk, how I loved the chalk gliding through my fingers to make a soft, white, delible impression on the chalkboard.
But more seriously, my writing has always come as a response to trauma. The death of a close family relative, some years back sparked my first book, a delightful offering, I’ve been told, to children, all across the globe. It’s the First Day of the School Holidays.
I remember with great determination when asked about the title, by the editor at the time. I was adamant not to change it, I was never around to enjoy the first day of the school holidays with my kids, and I’ve always imagined what this would be like.
In my mind, the book captures just that, my adventures, with my kids, albeit quite ordinary, capturing the day.
I think on a deeper level, when I lost this particular loved one, I really began to question my own purpose, my own legacy.
Once again, in 2019, I was confronted by another veil of trauma, this time, my mum was diagnosed with cancer. I was living abroad at the time, and she had given strict instructions, “don’t come home, I’m going to be just fine”
And she was, and she is once again.
Nonetheless, I was quite alone in my own emotions, own thoughts, own experiences, and you guessed it, I began to write… this time much shorter phrases, shorter “stuff” in general. I have not stopped since.
For me, words were my own counselling, my own therapy, and healing.
It’s worked its magic, ever since, and now I have the courage to share my words. I’m eternally grateful for every life lesson and the teaching it has brought into my life.
I share my poem, “Gratitude” with you all this week.
Take care, stay blessed, warm, and safe. Until we meet again,
❤️
Pralene