As I usually am of a morning, I was at the computer researching health issues for mature adults, when I came across some articles on the Cambia Health Foundation blog. These concerning youth, child and generational issues around children and child poverty, among other things.
Realising how right they are about the sufferings of these innocent and vulnerable children, sent me away from today’s adult health research into my own personal memories of what was, looking back so amazing and mind forming for me, and how much I wish I could help make it so for the many out there who don’t have that.
I thank God that I was fortunate enough to have parents who loved me and, even though they both had to work long hours, ours not being a wealthy family, still found time to show my brother and me, (even finding time to foster children in need and stretch their love easily to include them), how much we were loved and valued.
Silly little things really, my mother somehow inspiring me with her love of growing things. I still remember her stopping me from stomping on some ugly little insect or other in the garden, saying that it had a right to live its life and I did NOT have the right to snuff that life out. I didn’t realise it at the time, took it all for granted I’m afraid. But there was always something growing in our back garden, didn’t matter whether it was flower or fruit, it was all tended by her with love and anticipation.
My father, who worked shifts, always saved something, so that he could surprise us now and then by telling us we needed a new coat or frock or whatever and taking us all to town on a Saturday morning to find whatever it was he had an eye on for us, never did he mind the time it took to find whatever it was. And, once a year, taking us all away by coach or train on our annual 2 week holiday. That enormous love and caring has stayed with me all throughout my life and I find myself now, so sad to see those who clearly either didn’t have that love in their lives or, for whatever reason, can’t express their love in and for others.
I don’t mean the schmaltzy stuff, but the everyday, – smile – casual hug, the ‘can I help?’ that comes automatically and gives as much pleasure to the giver as the receiver.
Today, the sun is shining and although I’m no longer surrounded every day by my family, who are all scattered living their own lives, I can still smile at the memories that wash over me if I take the time to sit and reflect. Not always easy when one is trying to make a living. But in tribute to my wonderful parents and childhood, I scour the internet to find ways to repay them by finding things that will help me to look after my own health AND my temper. Which sometimes flares out of nothing, thankfully though, generally only momentarily.
Ah well, I will get back to my current research on the positives and negatives of natural vitamins and remedies on our health, tomorrow.