Following the tragic loss of his much-loved niece, Richard embarked on a journey to discover the true meaning of Hope. This turned into a lifelong crusade to show that hope was something creative and sacred within us. No-one gives it and no-one can take it away. Hopelessness does not have to be true. We can Choose Hope

** Scroll down for a sample story. This is one of the shorter stories, but all that needs to be said is said. I'm sorry that I cannot include the picture that has been created for the story. For that added inspiration you need to get the book :) **

This book is a 140 page illustrated collation of the stories of that journey. Each story has a specially created picture which gives that something extra to life the book from just being a wall of words. The scenes range from the shores of Lake Geneva to Paris and the Picasso Museum to the comforting shores of home. Richard brings each of his experiences to life. Some funny, some tender, some challenging and all proving that there is nothing insignificant in the world around us, we just need to notice. Each story naturally finds a meaning or a message or just a simple truth. Each story is an offering and also an invitation to you. Throughout the book are opportunities for you to consider and reflect, and there is space for you to add your own stories.

This book is full, but not complete. Each book is unique because of what you add, the marks you make, and the stories you share.

THE TEACHER.

When my daughter, Jessica, was about six years old she wanted to begin piano lessons. She had already shown a natural talent and music was in the family, so we set about finding a teacher. It didn’t take long to find a delightful woman who taught piano in her home to children in the community. Her rates were reasonable and her way with children was very special. Ten years later Jessica is still taking lessons with Margaret. Jessica has learnt to play very well. But there is more to it than that. Jessica hasn’t just learnt how to play the piano, although that is all we paid for.

She has learnt to be patient and generous with her talent; she has learnt about kindness and good heartedness; she has learnt about dedication and contribution; she has learnt about the treasure chest that music is. All this she learnt for free because those are the things that shine out of Margaret and the children simply become enlightened in her presence. There is no way to repay Margaret for these gifts. She doesn’t expect it anyway. But Jessica will carry a glimmer of Margaret with her for the rest of her life and be richer for it. Margaret can look around the world and see the blessings she has created in these children flashing like fireflies flitting around a midnight glen.

It is what we create from our inner passion and truth that makes the world a greater place. Not by the magnitude of the contribution, but its sincerity.