On the pilgrim way: Listening to difference

06/07/2016 | Reform

Sheila Maxey faces the challenge of listening to difference

I have long been impressed by Jean Vanier and the L’Arche communities he founded, where people with learning disabilities live with those who society considers normal. I planned to spend my … Read More

On the Pilgrim Way: Time to move?

27/05/2016 | Reform

As a child I was proud to have been born “pre-war” because my sisters always talked about “pre-war” as the golden time. However, those of us born shortly before the Second World War also went on – in many cases … Read More

On the Pilgrim Way: Old age isn’t going away

22/04/2016 | Reform

Two-year-old Tanu is screaming with frustration next door: frustration about the things she is rightly not allowed to do, frustration about the things she has not yet got the skills to do. So many limitations! She is in the midst … Read More

On the Pilgrim Way: Fresh growth

27/03/2016 | Reform

Sheila Maxey wonders at fresh growth

I have had time this spring to watch and wonder at all kinds of fresh growth – in nature and in children. A large magnolia is in my sightline as I sit at my … Read More

On the pilgrim way: “Lent seems a recipe for self-absorption”

22/01/2016 | Reform

Sheila Maxey fights self-absorption in Lent

I am a bit wary of Lent and its call to self-examination and repentance. It seems either a recipe for self-absorption or for depression. Rowan Williams, speaking in St Paul’s during Advent – another … Read More

On the pilgrim way: “Parents are expected to be interested”

27/11/2015 | Reform

Sheila Maxey reflects on taking an interest in your children

Our younger daughter – now a senior engineer for hydro-electric schemes in Scotland – stayed with us recently in order to prepare for and attend a meeting with the energy … Read More