You Are Family

I'm sat in bed with my daughter as we cradle cups of tea, and balance the laptop between us. I do all my best writing from this position, and over the past few weeks have been editing my novel in this exact spot with Plum playing in the background. This morning, however, before I can make any headway with said novel, I have the privilege of writing my monthly ACW post. So, what nuggets of wisdom can I impart to

you this month, dear readers? What have I learned? What can I share?

The truth is, many (if not all of you) are much wiser, competent, kinder and funnier than I (oh, how I crave funny, right now). Alone, I'm small and rather insignificant but together we can fly. Now, more than ever we need each other's encouragement, joy, humility and love. Now, more than ever we need to be there for each other; to lift, to hug, to guide, to inspire, to boost. Just writing this brings warmth, knowing that you're all there smiling, nodding, recognising my words as your words, and probably adding your own. More than ever, I acknowledge the importance of this group. You are family.

You judge only when asked and are kind with your suggestions and opinions. You are generous with your time and comments. Occasionally, you are hurt and a little angry but that's okay too, family is like that. We have a safe place to share and be honest, a little protected from the big wide world but also a stepping stone into it. I savour my time with you, reading the posts, catching up, from time to time, with Facebook and Twitter, knowing you're all there and I'm one of you. Anyone can be a part of us, we all belong to each other and to God. You are family.

And the richness! Poetry, prose, fact, fiction, haiku, humour, biography, biblical. Each of us so different yet so relevant. Each of us a thread in the opulent tapestry of life, a note in God's musical masterpiece.

Alone, the world is a dark, scary, broken place especially now when fear and worry are being shouted from every newsroom into every dwelling place. The future may be uncertain, your home may feel like a prison, the sky grey, the horizon faint, but, no matter what you're feeling right now, remember, you're not alone. You are family.

Together we can fly