Tag: community

Kiama Unplugged. Jane Bourne how Us and We Can Disconnect to Reconnect

Jane Bourne Unplugged speaking at Ignite Berry 

Getting off our phones and stopping the doom scrolling is something that matters to all of us. We all know we do it. At the Ignite event on 5 September at the Berry School of Arts, Jane Bourne challenged us to think about what it is doing to our children, and to ourselves.

“We want a free roaming childhood back. Children should be out playing with kids of all ages, not glued to a screen.” Jane Bourne

Jane is the founder of Kiama Unplugged, a movement born from her determination to protect her own children from the mental health impacts of smartphones and social media. Instead of giving in to the idea that “everyone else is doing it,” she decided to act.

“Disconnect to reconnect, that is how we will beat the loneliness epidemic.”

The initiative creates phone free spaces for families and communities. The very first events were held at Finding Fillmores, an adult only event when people gathered, without their phones, played cards or chess, built Lego, coloured in, and talked with strangers. The idea quickly grew into monthly family friendly gatherings at Finding Fillmores, and weekly book hours at Cin Cin Wine Bar, offering simple and joyful ways for people to connect.

Jane reminded us that social change can happen. Once upon a time no one wore seatbelts and people smoked on planes, until enough of us decided to do things differently. She believes the same shift is possible with screens, and that children deserve a free roaming, creative childhood.

“On average we spend 10,000 hours online, enough time to complete a medical degree or learn an instrument. What if we invested that time differently?”

Her vision is to see Kiama Unplugged become part of a wider Australia Unplugged movement, encouraging families everywhere to make the pledge not to hand over smartphones just because their children are starting high school.

“They say from small things big things grow. I believe enough people want change, and we can make it happen.”

It was a powerful reminder that when we disconnect, we can reconnect, with our children, our communities, and ourselves.

📸 Images used in this post are for commentary and community storytelling. Credits belong to the original photographers and sources. Please contact me if you would like an image credited differently or removed.

#IgniteBerry #JaneBourne #KiamaUnplugged #FindingFillmores #CinCinWineBar #DisconnectToReconnect #CommunityConnection #ChildhoodWithoutScreens

The Heart of The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny – A review

I always get excited when a pre-ordered Louise Penny novel arrives on my Kindle. After 19 books, it must be challenging to bring a fresh crime adventure to life. While I found the plot in The Grey Wolf highly implausible, I’ll keep reading her novels for the deep humanity they exude.
Here is my review ……
In The Grey Wolf, Louise Penny once again invites readers into the world of Armand Gamache and the village of Three Pines. While the crime element may now feel implausible, Penny’s storytelling remains driven by her commitment to explore life’s quieter, more human moments.
This is a perfect example:
Gamache’s character is beautifully portrayed through the lines etched on his face:
“And then he smiled at her. And as he did, the furrows deepened. And she was reminded that while some of the lines down his face were certainly caused by pain and sorrow, stress and grief, by far the deepest impressions were made by just this. Smiling. Like lines on a map, these chartered the longitude and latitude, the journey of a man who had found happiness.”
Such a beautiful way to capture a man who has faced suffering yet chooses to embrace joy, embodying resilience.
The village of Three Pines feels like more than a setting; it’s a place I wish I could call home, a true sanctuary offering “comfort in an ever-changing world.” It restores its residents, giving them a sense of belonging without isolating them from the realities of life—a beautiful reminder of the healing power of community. Yet, even in this idyllic place, Gamache’s moral complexity stands out as he navigates his own inner conflicts. Haunted by Dr. King’s words,
“In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends,” Gamache embodies a commitment to justice and integrity, even when the path forward is filled with doubt.

Jean-Guy Beauvoir’s growth resonates deeply with me, especially his journey toward understanding the importance of feelings—a journey I think many of us can relate to. When we’re younger and haven’t yet faced life’s harder truths, it’s easy to overlook the power of compassion and empathy. Penny captures this beautifully in Beauvoir’s transformation:

“In the past Jean-Guy Beauvoir’s disdain of feelings would have been obvious.” But through his work with Gamache, his experiences in rehab, and the love he has for Annie and his children, he’s learned that “feelings were where it all began,” and that they drive the choices and actions that define us.

I can’t help but wish that this capacity for compassion were innate, something we all carried naturally from the beginning. But perhaps it’s life’s challenges—the losses, love, and struggles—that awaken it within us. Penny’s portrayal of Beauvoir’s evolution reminds me of the importance of nurturing empathy in ourselves, no matter where we are on our journey. It’s this focus on compassion and connection that makes her stories so powerful, and why I keep returning to them.

At its core, The Grey Wolf grapples with the parable of the two wolves—compassion and rage—a theme that mirrors Gamache’s internal battle and Penny’s exploration of moral choice.

  “We all have them, inside. Best to acknowledge that. Only then can we choose which one we feed.” Armand turned and looked out across the mirror lake. “There’s a huge black wolf out there, Jean-Guy. Has been for a while. Feeding on rage, on the need for power. Spreading fear and hatred. Infecting the frightened and vulnerable. Convincing them to do the unthinkable.” “We need to find him. We need to stop him,” said Jean-Guy. “Or her,” said Armand, even as he saw his own black wolf lift its head. “But there’s also a grey wolf. We need to find him too.” Jean-Guy considered before saying what he was thinking. But finally, he spoke. “Are we so sure which is which, patron?”
Despite a crime plot that stretches belief, the novel resonates through its focus on courage, community, and the power of compassion over judgment.

#TheGreyWolf #LouisePenny #ArmandGamache #ThreePines #CompassionAndCommunity #CrimeFiction #MoralChoices #BookReview

 

The Power of Positivity in Agriculture

In a world often fraught with challenges and negativity, the power of positivity stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. This image spotted on Facebook highlights a profound truth: our emotions and attitudes can significantly impact our lives. When read left to right, the statements depict how negative emotions and traits can destroy vital aspects of our existence. However, when read right to left, a new perspective emerges, showcasing the empowering force of positive attributes.

In agriculture, it is especially important to focus on the positives without prefacing them with negatives. Too often, conversations about agriculture start with a negative statement followed by a “but,” which inadvertently reinforces the negative. For example:

  • Negative Reinforced: “People think agriculture is all mud and flies, but it’s also full of innovation.”
  • Positive Reframed: “Agriculture is full of innovation, advanced technology, and sustainable practices.”

Additionally, agriculture too often plays the sympathy card, emphasising its challenges in a way that overlooks the fact that other sectors also face similar difficulties. It’s important for our language to be inclusive and recognise the shared struggles and triumphs across different industries. By doing so, we can foster a sense of solidarity and mutual respect.

Examples of Inclusive Language:

  1. Negative Sympathy: “Agriculture faces unique challenges that others don’t understand.” Inclusive Positive: “Like many sectors, agriculture faces challenges, but it also leads the way in innovative solutions and sustainable practices.”
  2. Negative Sympathy: “Farmers have it harder than anyone else.” Inclusive Positive: “Farmers, like professionals in many other fields, work tirelessly to overcome obstacles and ensure a thriving future.”
  3. Negative Sympathy: “Only in agriculture do we see such hard conditions.” Inclusive Positive: “Agriculture, alongside other industries, continuously adapts to tough conditions, showcasing resilience and innovation.”

People remember the negative, so it’s crucial not to reinforce it.

Instead, let’s emphasise the positives and showcase the industry’s true value and potential. Highlight the sustainable practices being implemented, the technological advancements improving efficiency, the passion of our farmers, and the essential role agriculture plays in feeding the world. By focusing on these positives without reverting to the negatives, we can change the narrative around agriculture and help others see it for what it truly is: a cornerstone of society that deserves recognition and respect.

The power of positivity lies in its ability to transform our mindset and, consequently, our lives. By focusing on positive traits and emotions, we can overcome the negative forces that hold us back and pave the way for a brighter, more fulfilling future. Embracing positivity empowers us to be the best versions of ourselves, fostering growth, peace, and success in all aspects of our lives, including the vital and often underappreciated world of agriculture.

It is essential to break the cycle of negative reinforcement and instead, build a narrative that celebrates the contributions and advancements of agriculture while recognising the shared experiences across all sectors.

Using inclusive language offers an opportunity to build alliances with other sectors that share similar issues, enabling us to work together to drive change and create a more resilient and sustainable future.

For more great advice on language to use in the agriculture sector visit here  and here.

#Positivity #Agriculture #Innovation #Sustainability #Farmers #Community #Resilience #Growth #Technology #Collaboration

 

Moral Uncoupling from a Boomer Perspective on Supporting Pragmatic Leadership

As a member of the Baby Boomer generation, understanding the concept of moral uncoupling can feel like navigating a new world. Raised in a time when values and ethics were often viewed through more black-and-white lenses, the flexible approach of moral uncoupling can seem foreign and, at times, unsettling. However, this generational shift in perspective is essential to grasp why people today, including boomers, might support leadership that delivers on our primal needs.

Today our resident expert in all things Human Behaviour, guest blogger Alex Reed reflects on Boomers

Moral uncoupling is a complex and often controversial practice that allows individuals and groups to navigate ethical ambiguities in various professional and personal contexts. While it can lead to positive outcomes and pragmatic solutions, it also raises questions about the boundaries of ethical flexibility and accountability. Understanding this dynamic helps illuminate why and how people sometimes support or engage with ethically contentious figures or organizations.

Moral Uncoupling Through a Boomer Lens

As a member of the Baby Boomer generation, understanding the concept of moral uncoupling can feel like navigating a new world. Raised in a time when values and ethics were often viewed through more black-and-white lenses, the flexible approach of moral uncoupling can seem foreign and, at times, unsettling. However, this generational shift in perspective is essential to grasp why people today, including boomers, might support leadership that delivers on our primal needs.

Primal Needs and Leadership

  1. Security and Stability: Leaders who promise and deliver security, whether it’s economic, national, or personal, tend to garner support. This primal need for safety can sometimes outweigh ethical concerns. For example, a political leader who enacts strong national defense policies might be supported despite personal or ethical controversies.
  2. Economic Prosperity: Economic stability and growth are fundamental needs. Leaders who drive economic success often receive strong backing, even if their methods are ethically ambiguous. This focus on pragmatic outcomes over strict adherence to ethical norms can lead to moral uncoupling.
  3. Community and Belonging: Feeling part of a community is a deep-seated human need. Leaders who foster a sense of belonging and unity, especially in times of social division, can attract loyalty. This emotional connection can lead individuals to overlook ethical lapses, prioritizing the sense of identity and community the leader cultivates.

The Evolution of Ethical Perspectives

For many boomers, the concept of moral uncoupling can seem at odds with the values instilled during their formative years. Yet, as societal norms evolve, so too does the approach to ethics. Here are some considerations for boomers grappling with this shift:

  1. Changing Social Norms: Society’s understanding of ethics is not static. What was once considered unequivocally wrong may now be seen in a more nuanced light. Boomers have witnessed significant societal changes, from civil rights movements to technological advancements, each reshaping ethical perspectives.
  2. Pragmatic Realism: Today’s world often requires balancing idealism with realism. The complexities of modern life mean that achieving positive outcomes sometimes involves ethical compromises. Recognizing this pragmatic realism can help boomers understand why moral uncoupling occurs.
  3. Increased Information Access: The digital age has inundated us with information, making it easier to see multiple sides of an issue. This abundance of perspectives can lead to greater acceptance of moral ambiguities and the need for ethical flexibility.

Navigating Ethical Flexibility

Understanding moral uncoupling involves recognizing that ethical decision-making is rarely straightforward. Here are some ways to navigate this:

  1. Critical Thinking: Evaluate the reasons behind supporting a leader. Is it purely for pragmatic reasons, or is there a genuine alignment with values? Reflecting on this can help balance ethical considerations with practical needs.
  2. Ethical Boundaries: Identify personal ethical boundaries. Knowing where to draw the line can help in making informed decisions about when moral uncoupling is acceptable and when it isn’t.
  3. Open Dialogue: Engage in conversations with different generations to understand their perspectives. This can foster a more comprehensive understanding of moral uncoupling and its implications.

Conclusion

Moral uncoupling, viewed from a boomer perspective, underscores the tension between ethical ideals and pragmatic needs. By understanding this dynamic, we can better navigate the complexities of modern leadership support, recognizing that while moral flexibility can lead to positive outcomes, it also necessitates careful consideration of ethical boundaries and accountability. Embracing this nuanced view can help bridge generational gaps and foster a more cohesive approach to ethical decision-making.

#MoralUncoupling #BoomerPerspective #Leadership #Ethics #Pragmatism #GenerationalShift #HumanNeeds #Security #EconomicProsperity #Community #EthicalFlexibility

Remembering Nola Marjory Irvine who left a Legacy of Love and Resilience

Nola Irvine’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and community spirit. Her ever-smiling face, unwavering friendship, and compassionate personality left an indelible mark on all who knew her. As we remember Nola, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with joy, strength, and an enduring faith in God.

Irvine Family- L to R Back Row Sisters Nola, Valma, Olwyn and Molly, Front Row Parents Ivy ( nee Fredericks) and Robert Irvine

Nola Marjory Irvine’s life is a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, resilience, and an unwavering spirit. Born on July 21, 1926, at “Brooklyn,” a private hospital in Kiama, Nola was baptized and christened in the Church of the Resurrection (CoE), where she remained a devoted member throughout her life.

Nola grew up on Clover Hill, a dairy farm run by her parents, Robert and Ivy Irvine, since their marriage in 1920. Despite the untimely passing of her father in 1949, the family continued to manage the farm with the invaluable support of share-farming families like Ray and Avril King and later, Michael and Lynne Strong. These families provided much more than labour; they offered genuine friendship and neighbourly support, enabling the Irvine family to stay rooted at Clover Hill.

Education was a challenge in the early days, with Nola and her sisters often riding horses and walking long distances to attend Jamberoo Public School. Eventually, Nola completed her education through correspondence with Blackfriars’ Correspondence School, which later became known as the School of the Air.

Nola Irvine is 2nd from the right in the bottom row at Jamberoo Public School circa 1931-1932

Nola’s childhood memories are filled with joy and laughter. Visits to Clover Hill were marked by her great sense of humour, engaging board games, and delicious treats. Her love for animals was evident as she cared for her chooks, cats, birds, and cows, always accompanied by her faithful feline friends during farm chores.

Diagnosed with Coeliac disease in 1985, Nola faced her health challenges with remarkable strength and positivity. Her condition, undiagnosed for many years, never dimmed her spirit.

Her favourite saying, “it’s only a problem if you make it one,” encapsulated her approach to life. Nola’s calm, loving nature and unwavering faith were a testament to her resilience and courage.

Nola was an active member of the Girls Friendly Society during the war years, participating in hikes and picnics. Her loyalty and warmth were highlighted by her pen pal relationships, particularly with friends in England, which spanned over 50 years. A visit from her pen pals about a decade ago was a cherished moment, allowing Nola to proudly showcase her beautiful district.

Her passion for photography, inherited from her father, and her interest in family history were integral parts of her life. Nola played a significant role in researching and publishing the Fredericks Family History in the 1970s, preserving the legacy of her ancestors, including her two great-great-grandfathers who fought in the 1815 Battle of Waterloo.

Nola’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and community spirit. Her ever-smiling face, unwavering friendship, and compassionate personality left an indelible mark on all who knew her. As we remember Nola, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with joy, strength, and an enduring faith in God.

Nola Marjory Irvine, born July 21, 1926, passed away on June 20, 2004. Her legacy continues to inspire us, reminding us of the power of love and resilience.

This blog post is one of a series in the Family History Series on the Irvine Sisters. Thank you to Nola’s cousin Russell Fredericks for sharing his memories

#NolaIrvine #FamilyHistory #CloverHill #Jamberoo #CoeliacDisease #GirlsFriendlySociety #Photography #FamilyLegacy #FaithAndResilience #InLovingMemory