six days left...

My favourite current discovery...

Soundcloud ChurchofBirch

https://soundcloud.com/churchofbirch/tracks

I express my deeeep inner thoughts, I am lying in bed, ready for sleep, but my mind is too busy, I HAVE to type...

4 battle fronts

Hmmm

Oh I feel so down. I don't  think about erasing the whole tape, and restarting for a third time, I have too much, but... I am an un-financially-employed, thirty-something year-old, disabled for an unknown length, single man, who hasn't even kissed a girl in almost a decade. 

However, I do work for an organisation close to my heart. I love what I am able to offer them, and I am appreciated by the most amazing people. I am so lucky to have continued living past my accident. Everyone gets old, there is no way of regaining time. I have gained soooo much more in my character and self-belief whilst living for the past decade, incomparable. I really do not know when I will be able to walk again. I fear that when I do, people will consider me 'recovered'. Recovery is a lifelong journey, not a destination. Girls. I have lost this battle. I can easily make friends, but I have to live without a love. This hurts.

I give a Daily Fail customer the most belittling, condescending look.

Utter filth. How dare it call itself a national newspaper?

A headline slating junior doctors, then a big paparazzi photograph of Kylie Minogue, abusing her hair! A national newspaper!!?

I type no more on this subject. I pay it NO respect. It deserves none. This note was made, whilst in immediate, shocking disbelief in the shop.

My opinion, it has been disagreed with, but i have assurance that i can promote this on my blog…

Why have a second choice? Make one choice. It is YOUR choice, no-one else can even be considered when voting for London Mayor. I understand, if you do like others, as well as your party, and cannot make your mind up. However, I will vote with pride, 100% behind Sian. No-one else deserves ANYTHING, in my opinion. If you vote negatively, it degrades the value of your first choice.

Be proud of your decision. Believe in your vote. Please do not vote negatively, to vote people ‘out-of-the-equation’. Vote to vote people ‘in-to-the-equation’!

May 5th is this, approaching Thursday. As citizens of this capital, Londoners cannot allow our wonderful city to continue failing itself. It owes this to the rest of the world, as well as ourselves. Please.

The Staves - I'm on fire

ahem... ;)

https://soundcloud.com/churchofbirch/how-long-original-demo

I open this week, with the above link to some amazingly, beautiful and very stirring music. Diane Birch is one of my heroes, a big fan, I have loved all of her albums, opening with the amazing debut 'Bible Belt', through to her latest 'Nous' (released earlier this year).

Facebook unexpected wonders!

Many of this audience may be 'friends' on Facebook. Below, I provide two 'unexpected wonders', comments in which I am praised/thanked, but they came as a complete surprise, brightened my mood superbly. Thank you Andree, and Diane!

 'Prodigious', ahem...
;)

Unsurprisingly, my next note talks about my coffee choice.

Darker roast chosen, less caffeine, still Colombian : )

It should be noted, however, that whilst I type this post, I am lucky enough to taste one of the best coffees I have EVER had. A short, double-shot cappuccino. Thank you Wayne of Hussar's Espresso House.

cycling

http://www.theguardian.com/environment/bike-blog/2016/apr/14/london-mayoral-election-qa-on-cycling-policy-with-the-main-candidates

I am currently 'wheelchair-living', but I want to confirm that I still have the mind of a cyclist. To be fair, Boris Johnson did help initiate this City's tolerance of cycling. Sir Bradley Wiggins showed his sporting success, to great appeal for the public and citizens of this Capital.

I have always known of the sustainable efficiency, of the bicycle. I feel that I will always consider it as the supreme. Slowly, very slowly, people are catching on too. 

Sian Berry's superb stance on this political issue, has been correctly confirmed by many electoral reviews.

BBC Radio 4 - http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b077gqk3 - 52 minutes in for 5 mins!

Elderly people are wheelchair hazards! They demand 'right of way'!!

Music, coffee, cycling, politics, and I finish this post talking about 'Wheelchair issues'. The other day, it was re-affirmed for me that elderly pedestrians are extremely hazardous to wheelchairs (more so than pet dogs)!  At least canines have a rapid reaction. Dogs can hear things, and generally speaking, their awareness is understandable. Some elderly pedestrians, not all, demand priority. Many do not, giving a wheelchair initial priority, but occasionally they act appallingly.

This afternoon I received a response from James Berry MP. He has told me that he will respond with a letter regarding my issue with Alan Duncan (who knows what that means?) Strangely, I received an 'email receipt' following my original email (dated 17 March), yet he denies having ever received it. Hmmmm.

Interesting...

.

..Very interesting.
I have regularly been considered ‘the modern day Sir Isaac Newton’. Now I have proof!
I have to disagree, however, with the claim that it is impossible to talk about coffee for more than twenty seconds!

I was at the Bar Italia today for the first 2016 visit. 

'One could argue that these intelligentsia and knowledge economy workers – Samuel Peyps and Sir Isaac Newton were regulars'

http://www.theguardian.com/cities/2016/apr/08/coffee-shops-gentrification-urban-change?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other

Daytime, I don’t drink mugs of coffee anymore…
I am strict:
Macchiato Espresso, pre breakfast (Cappuccinos only allowed on weekends)
Espresso and Water, daytime
Americano, night time (or a 'Espresso Singolo' after a dinner out)

SWLSPRING NEWSLETTER

It is April, mid-Spring, but fear not I had completed the work weeks ago. Our newsletter has been printed, delivered and Green Voice is now available online...

http://www.andree4southwest.london

I have also designed a layout for everyone, explaining how simple the voting system actually is. It is easy, and accessible, and I pity those who are too lazy, and vote before researching their options.

(click on image to enlarge)

May 5th

= just under 3 weeks to go!!

Alan Duncan vid (link)

I only touch lightly on this video, because the fool offends me so much, he shall not get the respect of this blog (nor the video, you have to follow link).

Social Responsibility. His words show absolutely NONE. Sickening.

"Shouldn't the PrimeMinister's critics really just snap out of their synthetic indignation, and admit that their real point is that they hate anyone who has even got a hint of wealth in their name. So, may I support the PrimeMinister, in fending off those who are attacking him, particularly in thinking of this place, because if he doesn’t, we risk seeing a House of Commons which is stuffed full of low-achievers, who hate enterprise, hate people who look after their own family, and who know absolutely nothing about the outside world.”

Alan Duncan

11th April 2016

His first name is a four-letter word.

I even have difficulty crediting him, by referring to 'it' as a 'human'. It reflects so poorly on his group of beings (aka 'Conservatives').

People may be disappointed by my attitude, yet I feel I have more than enough reason to feel such despair at this government.

This left me with such a horrible feeling inside me. I don't think I have ever despised anyone to such an extent, for speaking one set of words!

Well, a new paragraph, a different subject. I do not want to class my MP as low as 'it'. I am prepared to allow him two months until he responds to my letter (dated on this blog as March 17). James Berry has yet to respond.

A month since my letter…

I almost forgot that this blog is about my life as a wheelchair user!

Mtb experience

I often find myself reminded of my mountain-bike skills (learnt and used trans-global, North-Downs, French Alps, Wales, Canada). Reminded when gauging handlebar/wheelchair widths to fit through gaps, wheel stability on various gradients/surfaces, etc.

Obviously not quite comparable, but these skills have been learnt (in a previous life).

I have talked coffee, wheelchairs, now music!

An artist from 'my time' has an album out today. She has appeared before on this blog, duetting with Josh Homme, although PJ Harvey is known a lot more, for her solo work. I have not heard her new album yet, but await with expectation!

PJ Harvey - The Wheel

utter despair :(

Today I wrote a second letter explaining my despair, to two key contacts. This despair of our rulers was mirrored, and was asked to be forwarded to my MP, James Berry. My initial, original letter can be read here... 

http://patrickgoodacre.blogspot.co.uk/

(Dated March 17th)

Dear James Berry,

These are clips from an email that I have just sent. I thought that you may wish to see.

‘ Dear ……/…….,

Despair, sadness, anxiety, inferiority, depression, are just five of the complex range of emotions under which I feel entrapped by MP Alan Duncan, when i watch this statement made in parliament.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-H3GLz-muE8

"Shouldn't the PrimeMinister's critics really just snap out of their synthetic indignation, and admit that their real point is that they hate anyone who has even got a hint of wealth in their name. So, may I support the PrimeMinister, in fending off those who are attacking him, particularly in thinking of this place, because if he doesn’t, we risk seeing a House of Commons which is stuffed full of low-achievers, who hate enterprise, hate people who look after their own family, and who know absolutely nothing about the outside world.”

Alan Duncan

11th April 2016

It is of no surprise that he is a member of the Conservative Party, so I feel utterly helpless, when feeling so opposed to this. As all members of the government stand in agreement with each other, it offends me and many others that RBK and Richmond are governed by Tories who must think similarly. As a Kingston resident, I know that I am living under the governance of James Berry MP, I cannot help but feel such anger, knowing that all KCIL users are just having to accept these rulings and suffer the consequences. Please, you must show more defiance. Warn KCIL users of this Tory regime, or warn Mr Berry that you will inform his residents of his threat, unless… 

The conservatives could be seen to be writing their own death-wish!

It has been just under a month, since my letter to James Berry regarding disability benefits. Iain Duncan Smith resigned the following day, but I am yet to get a response from James Berry (you both will receive a copy, if i do).'

Patrick Goodacre

This is how it feels...

I open this week, with music that is delightfully hidden on Angel Olsen's first album. I call it 'hidden', as I was unaware of her history. I only discovered her through last year's album, 'Burn Your Fire For No Witness'.

Half Way Home [Angel Olsen, 2012]

Silence expected of a wheelchair user crossing the road 

As it seems that  plenty of car drivers presume that all wheelchair users are mute, it gives me great pleasure to shock them, when I loudly shout my gratitude to them, as I cross in front! I believe that I have due reason, to ALWAYS let a car have a 'right of way'.   

More music.

No surprises when guessing who I am promoting here. A long-time fan, I was surprised by my lack of love of his previous release. This, however has rebuilt the faith for me. A strong lead single from his forthcoming album. Catchy, very catchy tune :)

Thank you Richard.

Richard Ashcroft - This Is How It Feels (Official Video)

(Album, next month)

I am currently writing this a bit later than usual, as I was concentrating on work this morning. I think I am still unfinished. The blog post below provides a display, as an example of pieces that I am currently doing for the Green Party. Sian Berry's stand for the London Mayoral position, is so impressive, and personally, I urge you to show her respect by understanding what you vote for.

EasyRead manifesto below

Corporate Identity uneasiness

I completed the 'Easy Read Manifesto' , but was always unsure of the balance between corporate identity/information  clarity. 

My friend Eileen is very passionate about our society & the changes that could be implemented to improve our current situation, financially & environmentally. I told her, that her mindset, views & the way she spoke from the heart was amazing, delightful and reflected that of some members of the Green Party. She was touched and said it was one of the most meaningful compliments she'd ever heard. 

:) 

I am deeply saddened when I look in the mirror, and I see what the world sees of me. This is why I have chosen to try and maintain pride in my thoughts.  I have lived in a wheelchair for almost a decade, I know that i am different to whom I was pre-14October 2006, but my mind still behaves similarly. Ohhhh mental strength is needed. Mental strength is all I have. It will continue to be used.

SianForMayor

the Manifesto 'Easy Read' version...

picture image files on this web-page, but a PDF version here https://london.greenparty.org.uk/assets/files/londonfiles/EasyRead_London_Green_Party_Manifesto_2016.pdf

VoteGreenOnOrange

It is April 1st and I rapidly got my 'April fools', out of the way, pre 9am. Stefano (Amici artist of the greatest cappuccino), was stunned and confused by my 'disappointment' of his Macchiato. Hmmm, I don't know whether they do 'April fools' in Italy!

My main mission this week, set by myself, is to promote our necessity of voting in this year's election. Please vote.

We are so lucky to live in a democratic society. Thousands of people have died, pushing for a fair society. There still are many, many who suffer, living without such a human right. We must not take it for granted. 

Vote for what you believe in. If you don't, you fail democracy. 

On 5th May, Londoners can vote for their Mayor. Maybe not as senior a position as a 'PrimeMinister of a National government', however such local power is of high importance, in England's capital. Mark a first and second choice for London mayor, on the Pink ballot paper.

Part of the beauty of this election, is our right to vote on three polls, on three different ballot papers. All can be considered as highly important. 5th May also gives us an opportunity to vote on an Orange ballot paper. Although this is not for a singular mayoral candidate, this Orange paper allows us to elect members of the London Assembly. London is subdivided up into sections, allowing twenty-five  elected members to create a 'London Assembly'. It is the job of the Assembly to influence and affect the London Mayor's decision, on anything relevant.

The third paper that we can vote on is again for the London Assembly. The Yellow ballot paper asks for voters to select a London-wide candidate to be part of the London Assembly.

The website below provides more information on the London Election.

https://www.londonelects.org.uk

I visited City Hall on Wednesday, to get some photographs...

I want everyone to vote for their beliefs.

I know that I promote the London Elections, and I also promote my beliefs.  I decided, last year, before the national 'General Election', that I am independent and experienced enough, to carefully choose which political party, to back. I joined Kingston Green Party. I soon started being a valued part of SouthWest London Greens, a 'publications officer'. As such, I strongly value the friendship that I have made with Andree Frieze. A truly inspirational, extremely hard working, amazing lady, whose belief's I seem totally allied with. 

I work mainly for London Green Party, designing parts that are needed London-wide, but I do not discount, forget, or ignore valuable points of my route. I consider my continuing work used by the political party, extremely valuable. I am very proud.

A continuation of my honesty shown, I share a poster  which is heavily influenced by my design used by Sian Berry, but adjusted, promoting Andree Frieze as a candidate for the London Assembly.

VoteGreenOnOrange

Vote for Greens on the Orange ballot paper ;)

Everyday reality strikes me. The more I witness 'normal' people living 'normal' lives, it hurts to be reminded of the most basic things, that I cannot do. I am missing the ability to hold hands with someone (a major stumbling block for having a girlfriend). No girlfriend means no wife means no children means no future..?

I envisage that you are now telling me off for thinking like this, but it is how my mind works!

Ok, children is a whole different subject that is not suitable to discuss online with you strangers. However, before marriage comes romance. I have not been in a romantic relationship with anybody for a decade!

Must I continue living in this void?

This pain will forever weigh down on me, has done for the past decade. I see no end. The worst thing is that I believe my free will is seriously limited, I have to sit and wait like a fool.

Shit happens.

I know that I cannot suddenly accelerate my physio rehab process. I cannot walk, I have tried so hard to accept this, and i think that i do. I continue learning, but I have to accept that i cannot rush. What I cannot accept is witnessing opportunities in life that I see others taking, but I have had no choice or chance to. I am 31! The past decade has warped my life so badly. OK, everyone is old in their eyes, but part of my broken brain is still that of a 22 year old. There is so much i want to do before i get to 32. OK, ok, there is always time. However, ability? No, I lose that as well.