Indie’s Bit

THE HOLDING HEART

Isobel, Donald, Steven, Janet and Ruth [and the white highland terrier pet dog] were the first family that welcomed and embraced me when I first went to Corrymeela in 1977.

For several years the family included me in their family Christmas celebrations in their lovely home in Bann Vale, Coleraine. I have great memories of hearty Christmas meals with all the trimmings, with up to 20 people tucking in. There was a sense that Christmas was here again, Isobel had prepared a wonderful meal, the family and friends were together, and all was well.

The holding heart at the centre of the family has always been Isobel. Her love and hospitality has held the family together. Isobel held Donald, especially in his moments of vulnerability

In the midst of all the attention Isobel has given to her family she has welcomed to her home and table, people like me from different national backgrounds, and walks of life.

In time I brought along with me my family too – Kathy, Liamarjit and Anjuli. We have very special memories of Isobel’s hospitality.

We have beautiful photos of young Liamarjit and Anjuli playing in the garden at the Bann Vale home.

I also associate the Piano, and Piano music with Isobel. I can see her in the little study at Bann Vale, writing, reading, or lifting out books from the shelves and talking about them…often with Piano music playing in the background.

Isobel has aged with poise, dignity and grace. She has borne her own health trials with remarkable calm. And within all her circumstances Isobel is at her best when she is thinking of or working for the welfare and peace of others. Isobel’s contribution to the Hospice movement and to peacemaking in Northern Ireland is immense.

At nearly 80, Isobel welcomed me to the ecumenical Bridge Builders group in Coleraine Methodist Church in July this year, and gave me overnight hospitality. And then she even allowed me to drive her in her specially adapted Car to Corrymeela and Knocklayd. We both enjoyed that!

Happy Birthday from the Bhogals Isobel.

With love, respect and admiration,

Inderjit Bhogal

29 September 2010