Mum was crying again. It seemed to be all she did these days. She huddled under a grubby cashmere blanket on the leather sofa in the lounge, sniffling. The room was a tip; unfolded laundry was dumped on the floor, dust on the tv, the coffee table and the window sills. Shoes were strewn across … Continue reading Lies
Prisoners of War Exchange
Never before had I felt such a tangible wall of hate. German troops, on SS Arundel, bound for Gothenburg, for prisoners of war exchange. Me, a British nursing sister. All attending a Christian service for the World Day of Prayer, 1944. “Why so much hate when praying for peace?” Tension mounted. Floating mines avoided. Ferocious storm. … Continue reading Prisoners of War Exchange
Loved Beyond Measure
Loved Beyond Measure Synopsis: After the death of his father, a young man gives us insights into his father’s life as the burial service takes place The day we bury my father, it’s raining. In fact, it’s been raining for several days and we’re not looking forward to hearing his coffin splash into the already … Continue reading Loved Beyond Measure
November 5,1881, Parihaka
I feel them coming before I see them. The sound of men. A bugle. Horse smells. Dust rising. I’m excited. Not afraid. We boys practise our haka. In front, the girls sing. Behind, the squatting adults murmur quietly. All wear the symbol of passive resistance; a white feather. No weapons. The smell of newly-baked bread … Continue reading November 5,1881, Parihaka
“And I will try and fix you”
“I know. I know. I know. It’s a big ask. But I’m desperate. I had someone all lined up, but, now she has to go into hospital, and I’m leaving tomorrow.” It’s my sister, Sally, on the phone. She’s booked to go to the US for a conference. She’ll be away for two weeks. “Please,” … Continue reading “And I will try and fix you”
A Letter to Witi Ihimaera
We’ve been together years now, you and I, you saving my life when unruly surly youths threatened to mince me. When all else failed I knew I could rely on you To grab them, glue them to their seats And keep me safe. First, your stories starring them playing hockey wearing gumboots playing tricks and … Continue reading A Letter to Witi Ihimaera
The Greatest Gift
The children sat wide-eyed as Ms. Millicent finished reading the story. “The prince took Cinderella on his horse and rode away with her. A fine wedding was held and the prince and Cinderella lived happily ever after”. “Isn’t that a lovely ending,” Ms. Millicent said. “Why do you think Cinderella has such a happy ending? Was … Continue reading The Greatest Gift
The Heartbreak Healing Machine
Is it love that makes the world go round? For some I’m sure that’s true But many an earthling suffers in love Alone and feeling blue. I’ll tell you, now, about a girl called Kate So bonny and bright and gay Kind and honest and quick to laugh She dreamt to marry one day. Kate … Continue reading The Heartbreak Healing Machine
Sometimes you win. Sometimes you don’t.
Always one to make the most of living in a foreign culture and indulge his love of history, our geeky Dad decided one weekend we should visit an ancient water village, famous for its canals and bridges, and not too far away. The Dragon Palace Hotel had been recommended. “As long as it has a … Continue reading Sometimes you win. Sometimes you don’t.
You’re the Best
Her question hovers in the air. She searches her mother’s face. Her heart falters. But Mum is smiling her gorgeous watermelon smile. “Of course, babe. I’ll come to your concert tomorrow. Wouldn’t miss it.” Tania’s brown eyes soften. Tentacles of warmth invade her chest . Until. Until her memories roughly push aside her short-lived joy. … Continue reading You’re the Best
What happened was... 