healingwords: poetry for the soul

This time of year can be difficult for those missing loved ones during a holiday season where we feel almost forced to be of good cheer. It is also the time of the longest night, when despite our hectic lives there is a need for quiet reflection. As the solstice passes and the lighter days return, it is good to remember those we miss, include them in our festivities, enjoy telling their stories. That way being together is more than just a yearly celebration dictated by consumption but a special time for families and friends to reconnect and share their warmth. We should also remember those alone and look into our hearts to open our homes and arms to those in need.  © 2019 Jacqueline Knight Cotterill.  All rights reserved.  

Wishing everyone who comes across my poetry in all corners of the world a happy day today. May my Christmas wish for peace on earth and goodwill to all be a breath on the wind of necessary change. 

For the Christmas period I will be posting the Christmas wishes tied to the 'rejas' of my house, sending my best wishes to you all.  © 2019 Jacqueline Knight Cotterill.  All rights reserved.  

This is my window display for the Christmas decorations competition run by Parcent Town Hall. We are asked to use recycled materials and it is judged on creativity, the use of materials and illumination. My plan to invite people to take a Christmas wish was nearly blown away for the fierce winds battering the village last night. I will be posting a Christmas wish each day for all who would like a little cheer. 

This year as I stirred the Christmas pudding, my wishes were for more than my family health and prosperity. With a world were suffering is normal for so many with worse to come if nothing is done about climate change my wishes are for humanity. That we may wake from the deep sleep and apathy, open our eyes and hearts to truth and work for justice.  © 2019 Jacqueline Knight Cotterill.  All rights reserved.  

68 years ago my parents were married in a brief ceremony reflecting the austerity of the post war years. Their marriage was a long and happy one and today I remember them both with love and gratitude.  CHRISTMAS 1950 How young they were, posed on their wedding day gloved and suited, shy beauty illuminating her austerity grey. Breakfasted on mushrooms, honeymooned for an afternoon, hand in hand wandering the Science Museum, cream tea in Lyons Corner. Sneaking back along the railway track, to reach their  dolls house caravan home, mud splashed through fields, so as not to be seen. Hidden away for Christmas, stain glassed sun casting sparkling light on paper chains as pine needles spiked army blankets on fold down bed.   © 2018 Jacqueline Knight Cotterill.  All rights reserved.