Go placidly amid the noise and haste and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons.  Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery.But let this not blind you to what virtue there is, many persons strive for high ideals and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe; no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here. And whether or not it’s clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive God to be; and whatever your labours and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it’s still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

Last weekend I took part in a photography project by Wayne Belger, an acclaimed fine arts photographer who designs (and builds) his own intricate pinhole cameras, set with relics which enhance the exploration of his subjects. Wayne is photographing HIV+ people for his “Untouchable” project, designed as a photographic study and exploration of people with HIV/AIDS. His camera pumps HIV+ blood across the pinhole through two thin sheets of acrylic, with the blood acting as a filter.

Mother, actress, songwriter & activist Conny Van Dyke allowed me a glimpse into her personal daily world. And shares how her life has been altered by the major stroke she suffered on Mother’s Day, 2010.