FEEDBACK: 'Year In Review - Family!'

Fareham circa 1980

It is always heartening to receive feedback on blog posts, positive or negative. I inherit a lot of comments and messages, mainly though the wonders of facebook. Today I received a message about my latest entry entitled 'Year In Review - Family' from a member of my own family, a cousin I haven't spoken to in well over a generation. I have only recently got in contact, with this person and  am so glad I did. At a time when I have been feeling rather nostalgic for all things British, missing friends and family, he was able to give me some words of comfort and encouragement, not to mention a supporting ear in which to sound off in, metaphorically speaking of course.

It can be difficult writing down feelings and emotions, especially those to do with family; these bonds are chequered and somewhat sparse, especially over the last ten or so years. There are many events, circumstances and difficulties, that myself and my cousin, don't know about each other. My life deviated away from the tiny market town, where I grew up, his stayed very much rooted in the memories of the past. I admire the fact he still lives in the town of his birth and envy his connection to  people I haven't seen for years. I can't get those lost years back, but I can at least focus my efforts on renewing links that are just waiting to be reattached; a continuation of where I left off, all those years ago. 

I will be paying my cousin a visit, when I eventually touch down on British soil again. His comments were much needed and appreciated, his words of advice taken on board and his genuine affection the biggest gift of all.

When people ask me why I blog, everyday, I am not always sure of the right thing to say; today gave me a real reason, apart from having too much to say, a crusade to fight or a story to tell; today gave me the true meaning of blogging; to connect with people, reignite friendships and relationships and of course move away from the pain of the past.

"Blogging is a powerful medium, don't let anyone tell you any different!"

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