Switching off...over and out

Tuesday 1st September, 2020.

I really am switching off the world of the media, the world of politics and the world of the constant comments on radio or television. I am switching on to the world of nature and of friends in difficult situations. I am switching on, then, to the real.

As I write my brother is in hospital undergoing many tests and whatevers. He has had a major heart problem for over two years. Last year he had an operation but it seems to have been only partially successful. Like me he is very private about his health and hates fuss. Yet I can detect an underlying pain and underlying serious problems. We have had some major difficulties and I have decided to travel to see him. I am grabbing a train next week, then isolating for a fortnight and then driving to see him. I shall keep it secret and then telephone. His son says that is the best way.

A friend has just emailed as to another suffering cancer scares and problems. It is a privilege to be asked to pray for people in such conditions and I have a real trust in the effect of prayer. I trust God even if I am unable to prove his existence. I follow in the footsteps of many greater women and men than myself and their lives and faith I also trust.

I have also just dug potatoes for a friend. She has not been well and her allotment has been a source of joy to me, even if a little back breaking at times. Today potatoes, runner beans and tomatoes. I trust nature but fear we are untrustworthy as guardians of this glorious planet. Trustworthiness is a huge virtue in my eyes and very close to kindness. I pray for both.