Every year on 8th September, celebrations of International Literacy take place cross the world.
Having started in 1967, it’s an annual reminder of the importance of literacy in society. Literacy is a human right for all, and opens the door to enjoying greater freedoms, broader knowledge and new skills and values.
We know that many people in the ME community are keen writers and readers! Writing can be cathartic, and can also help validate, reassure, educate and inspire others.
This year, we thought it would be a good opportunity to share a selection of your favourite authors, poems and words.
We would like to thank everyone who took the time and energy to share their favourites with us on social media.
We loved reading through your suggestions and hope they add comfort, enjoyment and a sense of community to you too!
Ren
Many of you may have already heard of Ren. A Welsh songwriter and musician, he has attracted millions with his raw and honest music, highlighting the realities of life with chronic illness. ‘Troubles’ on YouTube came highly recommended!
Hollie’s Poetry
Hollie McNish is a Sunday Times bestselling poet, who writes on a range of topics, often evoking thought and change. She shares to her Facebook page and Instagram, and has released books too. Here’s her poem on friendship:
praise
there are angels all around me –
clicking kettles; popping by
angels who will listen admit they cry when I cry
with hugs for hands
and ears for wings
we chat through fears
like angels sing
you may not see your halos
but, please know
to me, you’re everything
Helen Lilley
Helen writes poems on a range of topics including ME. They can be found on here on Facebook.
LJ Gray
A poem about hope by Scottish poet LJ Gray: ‘Hope is ma wheelchair’
Langstan Hughes
Harlem is a poem about dreams by American poet and activist Langstan Hughes.
Ursula Le Guin
This quote was shared from the book ‘The Left Hand of Darkness’ by Ursula Le Guin:
Light is the left hand of darkness and darkness the right hand of light.Two are one, life and death, lying together like lovers in kemmer, like hands joined together, like the end and the way
Gary Campion
Thanks again to everyone who shared with us and happy International Literacy Day!
