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Editorial opinion Feb 2009 Friendship -- being cared for -- really matters in this world Late February is a special time for this Piscean, this year celebrating my 70th Birthday surrounded by close friends including family. Great to have everyone here for "Elevenses" and to see friends who, in some cases, haven't been here for over a year. One Friend I first met some 48 years ago. Pre-warned of expectations that I should 'make a speech', this was -- and is here in this editorial -- a wonderful opportunity to honour people who have taught me so much; all but two have predeceased me. Of course, so many others have -- and still are -- guiding me by their actions. I was warned that I must make a “Speech” and share “words of wisdom”. My life fits into 16 year segments - so I should have something to say in 10 years time or when I am 96 -- take warning as -- on both sides of my ancestry -- there were ninety year olds - and I am better fed. FRIENDSHIP - being cared for - and LUCK has been my good fortune. Key people -- and recognising the wisdom they offered -- was a valuable early lesson. They include…. My grandmother, Mummum -- who I believe to be the granddaughter of local Chief Te Hemara -- was my mother throughout my childhood; her influence has protected me all my life and she continues to do so. My teens saw Fred Pratt demonstrate that one can stand on one’s own feet, even when it seems that everyone else reacts adversely. I met Fred and absorbed his influence over several years. Retired journalist Charlie Palmer shared his lifetime of experience with me as I moved from Teaching to Journalism and then to producing the NZ Children’s Newspaper, “Junior Kiwi”. Much younger than me, Ross Keatinge, has guided me through computer software use - and continues to be unstinting in his availability in the USA -- for some 25 years to date. As he got older my dad proved a gentle man -- I would like to emulate this aspect of his character. My wife, Nicholas’ mother Damaris welcomed me into their family and behaved as a mother to me too she asked no questions about my past and accepted me as she found me. Our new Family Trust is named in her memory.When head injury should have seen me ‘sidelined for good’, pure luck yet again delivered me to neuro-psychologist, Dorothy Gronwald, who carried out an experimental approach which has left me in control of my life. Her help was in friendship and -- I was unaware until just before she died -- at no financial gain for her. I have only named the long-term key influencers in my life -- to name others would risk missing some. There is friendship and help I have from you here and from so many who could not be here. I learn from you all. Thank you for being here today. My best friend ever, of course, you all know. If ever I deserved rewards for any “good things” I have done, then Nicholas has been such a blessing. She feeds me -- guiding me through the maze of chemical pollution -- encourages me, provides an environment of my choice, cares for my health and future and makes it clear that she loves me as well. As I have already said, Friendship - being cared for - and luck has been my good fortune.
-- PER Managing-Editor
NB: These matters may be on the thoughts of others . Do share your thoughts with us – with or without your name being published (but your identity must known to Editor).
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