In this strange, boundaryless season, the marking of time helps shape our sense of identity.
Small rituals and notes of celebration affirm our presence in the present and remind us that we are still moving.
When my brother Jules was born in 1967, there is no anticipation that people with Downs Syndrome would live into adulthood.
He loves birthdays, and especially his birthday party – anticipated for months and months ahead.
This year his special friends and wider family came through the videos and messages sent online, a more extensive gathering than usual. It was wonderful and broke through the isolation and numbness of days.
Jules also delights in (and expects) a cup of tea in bed every morning…