SAY IT, WRITE IT, SHARE IT

Reader news and views

In our November issue, Clover Stroud penned an essay on the passing of time and how it often feels like it’s slipping away, before writing her own reminder to enjoy the here and now. This resonated strongly with Kimberley Foley-wells. ‘Clover Stroud’s beautifully poignant essay struck a chord with me for sure,’ she wrote. ‘Similar to Stroud, I was a young adult in the 90s, before the digital world invaded our every waking moment. Time did have a less urgent quality back then; or at least my perception of it was more relaxed. Parenthood does change all that, along with the many other pressing responsibilities of being a “real grown-up”. I have two young-adult children, aged 21 and 18, who are both at university now and, blessedly, are living at home with us. When my younger daughter graduated from high school last June, the day of her prom was glorious and sunny. I soaked it all in: her golden brown hair sparkling in the sunlight, laughing with her friends, suddenly an adult in her green silk gown. My heart beat in my mouth and I choked back tears of pride, joy and sadness. It was the end of an era, but the beginning of a new one, too. I paused to acknowledge it, knowing that I’d always remember it. Stroud is so right – these are the days.’

Jo Brooks also got in touch. ‘I read As Time Goes By with a tear in my eye,’ she wrote. ‘I know I’m not alone with the busy life we lead with four small boys, wishing for more time in the days and weeks. Only last night I looked at my pre-teen and said to my husband, “How did this happen? Where is the time going?” Juggling motherhood and a busy career means there is little or no time for me, so I felt I should say thank you to all at Red and to Clover Stroud for giving me the five minutes to reflect on my life, and remind myself that we are doing okay.’