Stories of people during times of change and learning
What is the cost of growing up? This may not be the question we normally ask when thinking about our progression to adulthood. Yet I have observed that a child’s identity and worldview are primarily shaped by their family of origin. Even the tiny mannerisms that escape our faces have their origins in the people who nurtured us in our earliest years. So, whether we … Continue reading The cost of growing up
“When I was in High School, I didn’t know what I wanted to study, but I knew what I wanted to be,” explains Claudia as she unpacks the past few years of her life since leaving University. Creative Dreams She goes on, “I wanted to be an Art Director, working for a major publication because I wanted to be super creative.” After some investigation, Claudia … Continue reading Learning on the job
Doug’s story “I started running seriously about 20 years ago”, Doug explains. “Initially it was to spend time with my son Paul, who had developed a passion for running when he was 14.” Eventually Doug would be running long distances. Even though he had previously undergone a knee reconstruction, he became an endurance athlete, running in many long-distance events. “At the time of my peak … Continue reading The heart of a runner
Bec’s story Have you ever wondered about your purpose in life? Depending on what you believe, this could be the biggest question you try to unravel, especially when you are younger. Bec was no exception. “As a young Australian Christian I really struggled with the reality of the world. I would often raise questions about poverty, but it seemed like I was the only person … Continue reading Purpose – a rich person’s preoccupation?
“The real issue for me has been coming to terms with the assumption that I was invincible. Events over the past few years have shown me otherwise.” Roger recounts his plan for a staged transition out of his dentistry practice, which was interrupted by an unplanned situation. “My retirement plan involved me selling my practice and over a period of five years working one day … Continue reading A transition out of invincibility
There is no better way of expressing how much you love something or someone than by the time you spend nurturing that love. Often, our time, just like our money, tells us where our hearts are captivated. Discovery Quite a few years ago, before Lara’s daughter Grace was born, she realised that her heart did not have any love for an administrative job she was … Continue reading A tale of swans and butterflies
So, how has 2020 been for you? It’s impossible to find anyone whose life hasn’t been upended in one way or another. It has been particularly challenging for business owners like Phil, who depend on regular contact with people every day. Phil cuts my hair. I’ve been seeing him for at least seven years, maybe longer. He and his wife Iris own a salon in … Continue reading A view from the top
“I was raised to believe that you work hard, do your job and be conscientious. But experience has shown me, to some degree, this advice just goes out the window. You could be made redundant at the drop of a hat and you have no control over it.” Joseph reflects on a major episode in his life that occurred more than six years ago. It … Continue reading A Good Samaritan’s Reflections
Travis turned 40 earlier this year. He believes he experienced a turning point around that time. “I had been having health problems caused by a number of changes in my life.” Travel He reflects on his life prior to that. He has done a lot of travel. United States, Canada, parts of Europe such as England and Italy, and most countries of South East Asia … Continue reading Turning 40
don't write us off 