In normal times we push our way onto the tubes and buses, compete for jobs and school places without even talking to our neighbours or fellow travellers.
Author Archives: jencableart
Golden Bough
In ancient times Aeneas hung the golden bough over an arched door and went through to the Elysian Fields, the abode of those who led just and useful lives. Perhaps that’s where all key workers will end up.
Burnt at the Stake
I don’t want to be part of a culture that is frozen in the past. I want to be part of a developing world, in which we can all thrive. Clinging to outdated ideas, or the status quo will only hinder all our progress
Ugly Duckling
A phoenix from the ashes of despair. An ugly duckling that became a swan. What is initially unappealing and unpromising has the potential to become beautiful and admirable in maturity. There is hope for us all.
Mirror Mirror
Why is it that women have such a difficult time accepting aging? Sure, in ancient times our life opportunities could be determined by looks and child bearing capabilities; but those times are long gone and yet society still seems unable to value women over the age of 40.
She Persisted
Research shows that women who want to succeed are told that they need to consciously monitor themselves to balance assertion with enough caring/nurturing behaviours so they don’t upset the way in which others are used to seeing the world working. How much longer do we need to hide our strength behind a soft outer shell to be accepted and recognised for what we can contribute?
Mountain Stream
I’ve always loved water. I have childhood memories of outdoor unheated pools and my long suffering father forced to accompany me to keep me safe. Recollections of rushing into the Irish Sea every day on holiday and emerging blue, shivering and covered in goose bumps to then hide behind a windbreak and chafe heat back into my limbs.
So much more to give
What are we doing in reading Rapunzel to our sons and daughters? A girl who was so conditioned to focus on her looks that she fails to realise that she could use her own hair to abseil down the tower and escape to freedom. So much for realistic life expectations and good role models.
Asking for it?
Stay on the path and don’t talk to strangers is the advice from little Red Riding Hood’s mother as she sends her off on another elder care errand, a little basket of cakes dangling from her arm.
Who blazed your trail?
There are so many women who have inspired me, and made my life and career a little richer. So thank you to all those feminists who stood up and challenged those in power enabling me to study, to work after marriage, to own property and to vote. Thank you to those who endeavoured to get me equal pay. Thank you to those who are making it clear that sexual harassment is not OK.
Jen Cable Art 