Kia Ora,

This last few weeks has provided a strange ‘new lesson’ for me; a lesson not so much on ‘Life’ as on the end of it. Four key people in my “Village” - the small groups around me -- have died.

First was my neighbour, so-capable handyman and friend, Peter Chapman, who was not quite 50. Next my brother-in-law and computer hardware support, Roger Bullock, the day before his 61^st birthday. Both much too young, and unaware that death was even a close likelihood. A plus for them was that they never knew the 'fears of death' that many others face but for us these unexpected deaths were traumatic.

And now a friend and neighbour, Louise Hansen, who was driving herself everywhere by car until very recently. Louise lived 84 years to the full, became ill on Wednesday and faded away with family around her over three days. A lovely lady who never gossiped or outstayed her welcome, a full life and the way I'd like to go.

My body is getting older and my past successes are “Grampsie’s stories” - matters cast to history. The problem of age is accelerated by the fact that "what you did" is now history and quickly forgotten or dismissed.

The wonderful privately run, Koru Grove Primary school will close at the end of the year. Principal Lesley Law has enriched the lives of hundreds of children and has earned her retirement. We wish her and retired Mayor John Law rewards for the work they have done for the community.

“To know what your Life has achieved and to feel pleasure from those memories” - is this another “Lesson in Life” ?

-- PER, Managing Editor