Tony and Barbara Holden ‘encouraging in difficult times’

People are encouraged in different ways. We guess there are as many ways as how people respond say to humour or food preferences!

It’s good to encourage one another to discover what it is that sustains, nourishes, helps us survive, leads {even} to a sense of fulfilment.

It is very personal. To give an example. Here’s a quote from Samuel Beckett: “Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.” Tony, since first reading it, has found it positive, valued, encouraging. When Tony quotes it, as now, Barbara dives for cover! [from the story ‘Worstward Ho 1983].

So, we write most months for our LMC church magazine and seek to encourage readers both from our understanding of the Christian faith and our own lives.

Both of course in dialogue with our ever-changing human world and our planet – once again recently seen from space. There are so many divisive, damaging and violent things happening around our world. And we look with appreciation to all who are making a stand against them be they world leaders or individuals and community groups. We gain strength from being in solidarity with all who seek the common good.

So here we are sharing a new poem by Tony to offer encouragement.

Tony Holden ‘slow down’

This is the time

For patience and waiting,

Here is the rhyme

For stillness and making,

Switch off the angry screams

Hold on to creative dreams,

Yes, this is the time

For patience and waiting –

Slow down, don’t give up.

And as usual a couple of photos: Barbara ‘four azaleas’ – Tony drawing ‘stories we share.’