Author: neilhayeswrites

Writer and English teacher, living in The Czech Republic. Loves reading, writing and photography.

Teamwork

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Today was a public holiday and, due to the bad weather, we decided to stay at home. But it wasn’t a wasted day, we got plenty of jobs done, although I think my wife gets the prize for highest productivity.  And I spent the day watching my kids work, play and create together. They form such an amazing team, they never seem to get tired of each other. Obviously there are the occasional arguments, but they are always solved swiftly.

I think the two year age gap has contributed to their closeness, and also to the fact that there is rarely any jealousy between them. It is always interesting to listen to their conversations. Even though they speak to each other in Czech, I understand well enough. And, in some ways, it makes it even more fascinating to listen to them. They are so talkative and are constantly communicating, with each other and with us. There are some times, as every parent knows, when this can become tiring. Everyone needs some peace and quiet sometimes. 

So, maybe some earplugs? No, there will be a time in the future when life will be too quiet, and I will wish for a return to these crazy days. So may they always remain the noisy, lively, energetic maniacs that they are. I love them, and I wouldn’t change them for anything. 

© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish

Daily Prompt: Lofty

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It feels like now is a time for everyone to raise their standards. To think, to learn, to try to understand those who are different. To not believe the hype, but to investigate and choose our sources of information wisely. To not let one person’s actions colour our opinion of an entire group. To simply be human, accept the differences we find and rise above the hate. Just be better.

via Daily Prompt: Lofty

© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish

Pride of the Nation

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The Welsh have a great sense of national pride. As a small nation this pride does not manifest itself in international power or influence, but more in our sense of independence of spirit. We simply believe that we think and feel differently to the rest of the United Kingdom.

Commonly, national pride is expressed through sport. Wales is no different and our sport of choice is rugby. With the current tensions in the world and everyone seemingly intent on the reinforcement of borders, this particular warrior code has to be preferable to the real thing.

But, I have to say, I do get unreasonably emotionally involved while I am watching Wales play. If we are playing badly my emotions range from anger, if they are making mistakes, to a sense of emptiness, if they have no spark. If the game is on fire, so am I, and my emotions run wild. I am not alone in this, the whole nation is invested in the result of a rugby match. Everyone, from grandma and grandad to small children, don their rugby jerseys on match day.

Rugby is the Welsh religion. There is only one other country which beats us in terms of addiction and devotion, and that is New Zealand. They are, of course, by far the best team in the world and it must be a pleasure to worship at that altar. In comparison the Welsh must often suffer and sacrifice. But dragons are fierce creatures and when they breathe fire, there is no better feeling for the devout followers.

© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish

Daily Prompt: Copycat

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The ultimate form of being a copycat has to be the tribe. The word copycat has a very negative connotation, but being part of a tribe doesn’t have to be, it gives everyone comfort to be with their own kind. But this, of course, can be negative if it breeds racism and mistrust. Although not such a problem if it means wearing black clothes while you listen to heavy metal music.

We all need a sense of belonging, and if you don’t get it at home or school, then why not go looking for it. But you must still be an individual within your tribe. So maybe the most important thing is not to be a copycat in thought, set your own course and don’t always follow the prevailing wind.

via Daily Prompt: Copycat

© Neil Hayes and neilsworldofenglish