DH Lawrences's famous words were written about his relationship with his lover, as they defied convention and culture and overcame the obstacles that faced their love. Nothing quite so romantic for me but after two difficult professional years in which the institution in which I work 'required improvement' we got the necessary 'good'. Not that things have got easy mind, the challenge of teaching the new syllabus and the demands of teaching adults and young people coming back - and not always voluntarily - for a second, third or even fourth chance, is still as difficult and rewarding as ever. To say nothing of working in the most emotionally volatile but amazing team this side of the Irish Sea!
And indeed, to say nothing of being the late-middle-aged daughter of elderly parents - praise the Lord for supportive sisters!
'More for less' is the mantra and we seem to wait in vain for the government to step back and fund us properly. Meanwhile, a possible take over from a richer and more powerful institution stands in front of us. More unknowns.
Nothing stays the same; everything changes and sometimes I long for the past when it all seemed simpler but then as my old senior manager used to say, 'hindsight is wonderful thing.'
In a couple of days' time, I go to spend time with my recently widowed father and connect with the Kent coast almost 300 miles from my northerly home. How I love to visit Reculver on a cold February day or shop for nice treats in Canterbury.
Hopefully, I will have time to write abut my journey before I go back to the all consuming life of a full time lecturer in further education.
Song of a man who has come through
Phew....well at least that is That behind you....
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