Do you know what having the power of your convictions means? Not sure, then listen to today's episode
My guest this week is Jane Lockwood; Jane is an activist who lived in Greenham Common to protest the horror of war and nuclear weapons. She has spoken at the UN and the Royal Albert Hall. She subsequently relocated to Australia, became a Head Teacher and led a national training programme. Jane is reigniting her passion for writing and talking and has contributed to two books on healing from childhood abuse.
In this fascinating discussion, Jane talks about
The Importance of Education
The drive to escape a complex background and being determined to work hard and take the opportunity to go to university.
Becoming an Activist
The influence of her father's political stance and his support nurtured Jane's instinct to do something about bad things.
Greenham Common Experience
Jane answered the call and was deeply affected and horrified by the sight of nuclear weapons. She felt there was no other option but to become physically involved. This has led to a life-long need to take action.
Defying Expectations
Being different - Jane found her rebellious nature supported and encouraged by others. She believes fear is the driver of stopping people from doing things. By sticking with others, you gain strength. Not having family or career responsibilities at the time of Greenham made Jane's activism easier. She braved the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence or even being shot on sight. She was prepared to take the risk because other people were unable to.
Strong self-knowledge
MI is moving to a remote part of Australia.
Becoming a teacher gave Jane a ready-made family. Being in the Outback gave Jane great happiness. She was living in connection to the land and being outdoors. An unlimited horizon and space give Jane a spiritual connection.
Ending her teaching career with the Aboriginal people was a revelation and inspiration to fight inequality and patriarchy.
Looking forward with hope
Across the world people are still struggling, and the situation for women remains complicated. National movements lead to inspiration.
Focus on the Spiritual
Jane continues the daily journey of looking at herself, taking steps to a better life, and feeling comfortable in her skin. Nature and seeking her path was more fulfilling than established religions.
References
You can find out more bout Jane Lockwood here:
https://greenhamwomeneverywhere.co.uk/jane/
This a project to document the Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp, recorded testimonies, oral and written, included from over a hundred women who were part of the camp; there is a visual and music archive and information about current and future events by the project.
Jane has some artwork on these sites
Contemporary Markmakers Totnes
https://www.instagram.com › contemporarymarkmakers
and the blog https://markmakers.avenda.uk/
Etsy shop name handmaderosarybeads
The book I chose for Jane: Wild by Cheryl Strayed