I'm with Scooby

I read at the weekend of the homophobic murder of Jody Dobrowski in Lambeth. Every time I read of such horrors, I become more convinced that we all have a part to play in the prevention of these attacks. I am known amongst my own friends as someone who can be truly painful when they make jokes or comments which are in any way prejudiced… I know they find this frustrating at times, but I will not change on something I consider to be so important.

So, I was pleased to read about the security man at the club where Jody used to work. Known as ‘Scooby’, he said: “I know now that I wouldn’t tolerate a homophobic joke. I used to laugh them off, but it’s just not funny. Even if it was a close friend, I’d have to say: ‘change your tone when you’re around me’.”

I'm with Scooby...

Fragility of life

I had a reminder of the fragility of life on the M6 just now - an accident on the other carriageway with many police cars, 3 fire engines and a helicopter air ambulance. I don't think I have ever been so close - odd to see the helicopter just feet away. As I drove on, my mind was drawn to the split second upsets that turn life upside down. So many people affected - those killed/injured, their families and friends, the emergency staff dealing with it - and the hundreds of people in the 3-mile tailback that I passed. I hugged my husband when I arrived home, aware of how unexpectedly it can all be taken from us.

School reunion!

On Saturday I did something unusual - I met with 4 friends from my school days (which were approx. 30 years ago!). We met in London, some travelling from as far as Newcastle, and had lunch and an afternoon stroll together (Regents Park in the sunshine is really lovely...)

I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Before going, I had moments of wondering at the value of a day spent in this way, but I also knew that the reality would be great fun and that I would be very glad I had made the effort. I was right! I must remember to read this blog again and make sure we repeat the event in a year or so.

Cycling long distance!

On 10 September I cycled 100 miles in a single day... You can read more about this, and the lessons I learned from it, in my October newsletters at http://www.ambitioncoach.com/62652/84225.html.

Lime green caterpillar

As I walked back from the local shops, I noticed a 1 inch caterpillar crawling along the pavement - an incredible bright lime green. It was such a striking colour, that I paused and gazed at it, then wondered whether maybe I should move it onto some grass. It looked so vulnerable on the pavement. But I was reluctant to take this wonderful find away from others... It lifted my spirit, so I felt there was a reason it was there, standing out, and that it should be seen by as many people as possible.

I do hope it lived and got to safety... I still wonder if I should have protected it perhaps.