My Gramp.
When I was 15 I was very, very ill and ended up in hospital for 7 months.
It seemed everyone who visited me gave me fluffy toys or flowers.
But not my Gramp.
He gave me a pad and a pen.
And he said ‘write…’
I said ‘why?’
And he said ‘you must write…it’s important. You must write about what you see, who you meet and how you feel. It’s very important to write.’
That was 29 years ago,
I’ve been a copywriter for 20 years.
He died when I was 18.
This photo was taken in 1970.
He’s never left my heart.
I know it’s self indulgent, but I wanted to upload this.
He loved photography.
Greeting Cards, Matted Prints, Laminated Prints, Mounted Prints, Canvas Prints and Framed Prints
rufflesal
Good on ya. He sounds like a top bloke.
markhiggins
a wise man and it looks like he
had a great influence on you.
Great pic too – love the framing
and the disinterested dog!
Charlotte Morison
I agree with Mark, a very wise man. Art is an important element of life, allows us to express ourselves in a world that is often reluctant.
Writing I think forces you to experience and reflect on what is happening and that way we don’t hold onto things the would be better to let go of.
Looks like he would have been a lot of fun, love it hat! What is it with Grandfather’s and hats, mine wore one also.
sallystar
such a great shot,what a feeling this shot gives one..wow.
Jo O'Brien
Self indulgent- maybe
Meaningful and moving- definately
chanel
It’s funny, but this shot stayed in my mind all day, maybe he reminds me a little of my Gramp. Same era. Your work affects me Melinda, you’re a great photographer.
longroad
thats so sic dude!
thanks fa commentin on my pic, appreciate it aye
i think yr my fav…
transmute
This is really inspiring Mel, what a great man.
Paul Vanzella
This is a short and brilliant story – so glad you uploaded it (with the pic as well). First of all, the pic caught my attention, because I love those tones, and unbeknownst to the photographer is a wonderfully composed image with the white columns and the way the light falls… secondly the story resonates so beautifully… I have a seven year old daughter and she has spent this morning with me in my office on one of the Mac’s and came up with a wonderful story about flying in the sky with God and even illustrated it – she wrote the story herself and chose to spend time with me – I, of course have encouraged her to be creative and gave her significant praise for her work, whether writing or drawing, encouragement and positive thought is the best thing you can offer another person, and your real life story has proven this! – Thank you for this Melinda!
Craig Goldsmith
Love the story and the photo compliments it so well. Sounds like he was a wise fellow, and that you were an observant and obediant granddaughter.
Darren Stones
Good to see you treasuring this photo, Melinda. Thanks for sharing your story.
Mel Brackstone
The colours in this are just fabulous, Melinda, it caught my eye immediately. Then I read your story, and tears came to my eyes. I’m so pleased he was as he was, and I feel privileged to be able to know a little of how he was. Good on you…I’ll bet he’s watching over you now, and is as proud as punch!
willd
excellent shot, background makes it all the more interesting. lovely retro feel with the date etc… I have a few old ones like this kicking around – must dig them out and bring back some memories