Ramblings of a Provoked Mind

Up Close & Personal: A collection of the author's snapshots of life - thoughts, emotions, behaviours and experiences - as viewed through the lenses of reflection and reflexive thinking. As social animals, we feel the need to make sense of things, just as we seem to have a 'duty' to solve others' problems - usually in the form of unsolicited and unwelcomed advice. It fills our need for comfort, safety, being of value and security - we know who we are and where we are. Herein lies the author's journey. Penned over a two-year period, this compilation straddled the last year of the author's career and his first year of retirement. Born and raised in a developing nation (non-specific so as not to demystify some entries!), the author had aspirations to be a banker (!) after his UK undergraduate degree in Economics. As with life, he drifted into the realm of Social Services (Health Care) and after 8 years in the field, he did his Masters in Social Work at Manchester University; also qualifying as a Probation Officer. He has worked in England, Wales, the U. S. (Florida) and Canada. Since retirement, he has indulged in his 'hobby work' - facilitating groups on personal growth & development; continued his 14-year connection on co-facilitating groups on Relationship Violence and volunteer work in his home community. Jason lives in beautiful British Columbia, Canada with his also-retired wife Carolyn. They have two adult children and two cats (sisters!).