Reflections on a Life Less Ordinary
Personal stories, memories and observations from Peter Pickering — exploring the experiences, people and ideas that have shaped my life.
The Journey That Shaped Me
My life has taken me through different countries, careers, relationships and creative pursuits, often along paths I could never have anticipated.
Photography was one of my earliest passions, but it was never the whole story. Business, travel, history, music and the people I've encountered have all contributed to the person I've become.
These reflections are an attempt to make sense of those experiences — sometimes seriously, sometimes with humour, and always with curiosity.
The Symphony of My Life
But my journey encompasses more than just capturing images. This path is one I tread not in solitude but accompanied by my cherished wife, Parichad, my steadfast companion through the oscillating peaks and troughs of life. Together, we bask in the comfort and joy brought by our beloved dogs, Dinky and NooDee, whose boundless love and whimsical behaviour furnish daily doses of inspiration and solace.
My fervour for history and narrative extends beyond personal confines, materialising in the establishment and management of online platforms dedicated to the intricate narratives of yesteryears. From the barren volcanic rocks of Aden to the rugged terrains of Perim Island, I dive into history's depths, resurrecting long-forgotten tales to enlighten contemporary minds. This historical voyage transcends mere fact recitation; it's an endeavour to connect with our collective legacy, to comprehend the dynamics shaping our now and hereafter.
Discovering the joy of writing has been a revelation akin to uncovering a hidden treasure within myself. Once, I believed my thoughts and expressions were bound solely to the visual realm, conveyed through the lens of my camera. Yet, I've found a new avenue for my creativity in the art of writing, an outlet that allows me to weave creative insights and embellishments into words, much like the intricate details captured in my photographs.
Finding Pleasure in Simplicity
At my core, I don’t feel a strong personal connection to community, yet paradoxically, I lead an expansive online network of 375,000 street photography enthusiasts. This group isn’t just a gallery for showcasing images; it’s a place where photographers connect, share insights, and grow together in their artistic journeys. It has become a thriving community, despite my not being naturally inclined towards community-building.
I've noticed a shift in my preferences and pleasures, a transformation that's as natural as the changing of seasons. The once appealing ritual of dressing up to go out for an evening meal has lost its charm; today, I find solace in the comfort of casual attire, mirroring the simplicity I now seek in life. My culinary tastes have similarly evolved, gravitating towards the uncomplicated joys of traditional fare.
Say 'Hi' to family member, Dinky
Give me the hearty simplicity of beans on toast, the quintessential British comfort of fish and chips with a pickled egg and mushy peas, or the timeless satisfaction of a Sunday roast beef lunch, followed by the sweet nostalgia of apple crumble with custard. Even a humble cheese and beetroot sandwich suffices as a delightful snack. This shift extends to the modern coffee shop culture, where finding the basics amidst the array of fancy offerings has become a challenge. I yearn for simplicity, for the unadorned and genuine, a reflection of the changes that age gracefully instils in us.
Now, as I navigate the gentler currents of my twilight years, leaving behind the fervour of business ventures for a life adorned with simpler joys, my aspirations have transformed, becoming more intimate, less monumental. Yet, my zest for mentoring the forthcoming generations, guiding them through life's multifaceted challenges and professional quandaries, remains undiminished. So, who is Peter Pickering? A photographer, a historian, a writer, a devoted husband to Parichad, and a friend to all beings, big and small. I'm an explorer of unseen light, a chronicler of hidden tales, and an advocate for the indomitable human spirit. Welcome to my cosmos.
The Inner Landscape
In the in-between, I am a constant voyager, always tracing the delicate lines between realms. Existing in a state of flux, I uncover new facets of reality with every step, never fully one thing or another, always evolving. Beneath the surface lies my subconscious, quietly shaping my thoughts and creativity. It’s in this hidden depth that my dreams, fears, and instincts brew, guiding me like unseen currents, shaping the path ahead.
Yet, my journey stretches beyond the subconscious into the luminous supraliminal, where I step into the role of creator. In this elevated state, I transcend ordinary thinking, molding reality through creativity and imagination. At times, the vividness of my inner world feels isolating, as if I’m guarding a profound story hidden from view. My desire to share this richness with others is both a call for connection and an invitation to explore together.
For a deeper exploration of this journey, read the full article on Unseen Bridges.
"I've never been particularly interested in following a prescribed path. There always seemed to be another road worth exploring."
Beyond the Personal Story
Some of life's most interesting discoveries come from looking beneath the surface — examining the influences that shape our thoughts, relationships, creativity and understanding of ourselves.
Throughout these pages, I explore the experiences and ideas that have challenged my assumptions and changed the way I see the world. Some are deeply personal; others reflect questions that many of us encounter along the way.
