For Joel

A hollow conduit with some external connectivity is the form I now take .

My precious gift Joel Thomas Shields forever 21 was a hugely compassionate, sensitive soul that felt the pain of the world, too much at most times.

The world needs more love and compassion.

We need to be more accepting of each other.

We need to be more mindful of self as sometimes the frustration of others is seen as being directed at us but is indeed the frustration of our own daily struggles.

We all matter.

We are bombarded with negative information because that’s what attracts attention. While we should strive for a better world we also need to recognise the good and know that there is a place for all of us somewhere.

There is always hope.

We must remember that we are not alone. At times it may feel as if the world is a threat to defend yourself against and the temptation can be to keep people at a distance but this is exactly the time we need to reach out and allow others in.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Sometimes problems seem unsurmountable. There is always a solution. It may take time and it may not be perfect but you need to give yourself the time and space to just ‘breathe’.

Be gentle with yourself (and one another).

Joel’s keen intellect, huge heart, generous spirit and rainbow soul is missed every day.

The world is a lesser place without him.

Forever loved.