Wendy Cartwright interviews the writer and storyteller Janet North, who describes the fascinating origin of her storytelling journey.
Janet was our first storyteller and she says: “I have been writing for almost two years and the stories have always come to mind when I have been out walking or sitting in stillness. Spending time amongst nature is an inspiration and colour, texture and form have always fascinated me – especially in my textile work. Twelve years ago I learnt Pure Meditation and practising every day has made a huge difference to how I work. I used to be stuck for ideas, however I soon discovered that intuition developed through meditation was a springboard to new ways of working. When I was asked to tell stories about the plight of bees and butterflies I sat in the garden and watched. There is so much to see and it’s as if nature wants you to join in and enjoy the journey. It seems to me that each animal and plant has a gift and if we give ourselves the time to study each, as we feel inspired, then some knowledge will be imparted and their gifts valued. Sometimes I ask for inspiration to guide me and what joy it is to feel the gifts flowing, stories unfolding and songs emerging.”
“I have had many roles in my life, including training as a textile artist, Natural Spiritual Healer, Yoga Teacher, Counsellor and Coach. I have always enjoyed helping people and through these teachings I am able to help others find balance, creativity and well being. Animals are another important part of my life as an animal healer and it hasn’t surprised me that they are key ingredients in my stories. Working at an animal sanctuary as a volunteer has given me great insight to how adaptable they can become. Many have suffered loss through bereavement, separation from their loved ones or been abandoned or abused. Their lives can transform and we are very lucky to have nature’s companions to accept us without condition.”
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