Robert Sherriff — Nobody’s Home — poet — author — singer-actor — model — Historian
My ABC of my Life’s Journey
Robert Sherriff — Nobody’s Home — poet — author — singer-actor — model — Historian
To Kevin’s helper,
My ABC of my Life’s Journey
Introduction
I share this heartfelt statement from the depths of my soul — a testament to my life’s trials and triumphs. Over seventy years, I have faced extraordinary challenges. Yet, through the unwavering power of resilience, the comforting embrace of faith, and the profound journey of self-discovery, I have navigated my way to a life filled with purpose and passion. My resilience in adversity is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome, and I encourage you to embark on your journey of self-discovery.
Early Struggles and Survival
The odds were against me from the very beginning. My twin brother Peter and I were born three months prematurely, each weighing just two pounds. We spent the first four to five months of our lives in human cribs, fighting for survival.
Domestic Abuse
My twin brother Peter and I were tiny at birth. By the time I turned seven, I was still the size of an average five-year-old boy. This physical disparity wasn’t just a casual observation — it was a constant reminder of the fragility of our early years.
One stark memory I carry with me is the aftermath of an attack by my father. It took the doctors an additional two weeks to assess that I had broken bones. The delay wasn’t surprising given the times we lived in Australia — the 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and early 70s. Societal norms differed then, and troubling behaviors were often overlooked or ignored. Men would then go home and rape their wives. It was not uncommon for men to spend their evenings at the pub ‘hotel,’ get drunk, and then return home only to inflict violence on their families. Astonishingly, they would return to the same pub ‘hotel’ and share a beer with the local Police Sergeant, who turned a blind eye to their transgressions.
My father was no exception. From day one, he constantly belittled me, calling me stupid. These words were not just hurtful; they were a heavy burden for a young child struggling to find his place in the world. He told me from day one he hated me. He never in his days on this planet ever said I love you.
The era’s harsh realities and my turmoil shaped the person I would become. While society has made significant strides since those days, it’s essential to remember these experiences as we strive for a better future. Like many others, my story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring hope for change.
fragility of youth,
Growing up amidst tumultuous circumstances and navigating a turbulent sea of adversity, the echoes of a tumultuous past reverberate through the corridors of memory. The shadows cast by a father devoid of morality, inflicting pain with fists and broomsticks, while a mother sought solace in shields of desperation, paint a haunting portrait of a childhood marred by trauma.
The fragility of youth, embodied in the tale of twin brothers born into a world where innocence is fragile and vulnerability a constant companion, speaks volumes about resilience forged in the crucible of hardship. The scars of physical violence, etched into bones that bore the weight of brutality, stand as a testament to a journey fraught with agony and endurance.
Reflecting on a bygone era where the veil of societal norms masked dark realities, the narrative unfurls a chapter of history where the toxic brew of alcohol-fueled violence shattered the sanctity of home. The haunting specter of domestic abuse, intertwined with a culture of impunity, casts a sad light on a time when shadows danced in the corners of seemingly ordinary lives.
In the face of such harrowing recollections, the human spirit’s capacity for resilience shines as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness, illuminating the path toward healing and transformation. Through introspection and storytelling, the scars of the past are not merely wounds but testaments to the strength found in survival and the power of reclaiming one’s narrative.
End my Life
Tragically, these challenging early experiences were only a prelude to the hardships ahead. At seven years old, in a moment of profound despair, I attempted to end my life. The State Government of South Australia, in its efforts to provide care, made me a ward of the state, placing me in an environment were. I was sexually assaulted by adults employed by the state from the age of seven to sixteen. By eleven, I had become a street kid, navigating the harsh realities of life on my own. Despite it all, I found solace and salvation in God at a very young age, which provided a glimmer of hope in my darkest moments.
Family Tragedies
My life has been marked by personal tragedies that tested my will to carry on. In 1977, the year the world mourned the death of Elvis Presley, my father committed suicide. The pain of losing him was compounded by the devastating loss of my twin brother Peter, who was killed in a car accident over forty-five years ago. Peter had invited me and our younger brother Jimmy to join him on that fateful trip, but by some twist of fate, I stayed behind. When the police finally tracked me down four days later, I was shattered by the news.
Overcoming Hardships
Despite the trauma and heartbreak, I resolved not to be a victim. I made a crucial decision twenty-five years ago to seek a solid medical support team, including my GP, Doctor Sanjeev, and psychiatrist, Doctor Luckas, to help me cope with my past and move forward. Their guidance and support and the therapeutic outlet I found in writing through the All-Poetry site gave me a platform to process my childhood experiences and transform my pain into art. Remember, it’s okay to seek help. You don’t have to face your challenges alone. Building a New Life
At one point, I knew fifty people who had committed suicide, leading me to believe it was a typical path. Yet, I chose a different route. I started my own company thirty years ago, specializing in concrete, landscaping, Telstra communication, and asbestos traffic control. During this period, I was consuming a carton of beer a day — 24 bottles — until seven years ago when I quit drinking and focused on writing. Through writing,
I have co-authored two books, written another four, and have two more in progress. I also plan to publish two additional poetry books. However, my journey has not been without financial setbacks. A few years ago, my accounts were hacked, leading to significant losses. This incident forced me to prioritize and temporarily put some projects on hold to focus on recovery. Personal Legacy and Conclusion
I have been married to my second wife, Carol, for 44 years.
Together, we have built a beautiful family, including my sons from my first marriage — Mark (51) and Adam (49) — and our children — Robert (41), Kellie (40), Hayley (38), and Jarryd (36). We are blessed with thirteen grandchildren, ranging from 32 to 16 months, and four great-grandchildren, from 11 to 8 months. Throughout my life, I have learned that resilience, faith, and the willingness to seek help can lead to healing and growth. My story is a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and find purpose. Remember, no matter how dark the days may seem, there is always hope. We are all connected in this vast world; together, we can find the strength to endure and thrive.
Stay strong, and never lose faith.
Seize Opportunities
In life, everything is possible. Nothing is given for free, but seize the opportunity and keep going when given the chance. Don’t blame anyone else; the world is yours to conquer. Don’t talk defeat or be a defeatist. Instead, embrace the power of seizing opportunities. This is not just a motivational phrase; it’s a principle that can transform your life. Those who seize opportunities can shape their destinies and achieve greatness. It’s about taking control of your life and making things happen.
The Power of Seizing Opportunities
Opportunities in life are like fleeting moments of magic — those rare instances when everything aligns perfectly, and you can make a significant change. These moments may come as a job offer, a chance encounter, or a sudden inspiration. When they appear, you must grasp them with both hands. This mindset is not just a motivational phrase; it’s a principle that can transform your life. Those who seize opportunities can shape their destinies and achieve greatness.
Real-Life Examples
Consider the story of Oprah Winfrey, who transformed her troubled childhood into a media empire. She seized every opportunity, from her first job in radio to creating her television network. Oprah didn’t wait for success to find her; she went out and made it. Another example is Elon Musk, who has consistently taken risks to push the boundaries of technology. From PayPal to SpaceX and Tesla, Musk has seized opportunities to innovate and lead industries.
Steps to Seize Opportunities
Be Prepared: Read widely, learn continuously, and stay informed. You never know when an opportunity will arise, and being prepared allows you to act quickly. Preparation is the key to seizing opportunities. It’s about being ready to take action when the right moment comes. Take Risks: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Great opportunities often come with significant risks. Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and don’t dwell on failures. Learn from them and move forward. Network: Build strong relationships with others. Sometimes, opportunities come through the people you know. Be Proactive: Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Seek them out and create your own.
Reflect and Act
Reflect on moments in your life when you missed an opportunity. What held you back? How can you change your approach next time? Use these reflections as a learning tool to prepare for future opportunities. Ask yourself:
What opportunities are currently available to me? What steps can I take today to prepare for future opportunities? How can I develop a mindset that embraces risk and uncertainty?
Call to Action
The world is yours to conquer. When given a chance, grab it with both hands, and don’t blame others for your obstacles. Remember, everything is possible if you believe and act. Don’t talk defeat. The only limits are the ones you set for yourself. Be a visionary. Take risks. Seize opportunities and watch as the world transforms around you. Ready to seize your next opportunity? Start today, and take the first step towards conquering your world.
American history,
When delving into American history, the allure lies in unraveling the intricate tapestry of the past, unearthing stories that resonate across generations. The quest for knowledge transcends borders, leading to a profound understanding that surpasses geographical confines. Balancing myriad creative endeavors is a delicate dance, a symphony of passions that occasionally requires a moment of respite to recalibrate. Embracing online courses as a beacon of wisdom and immersing oneself in the hallowed halls of Adelaide’s library speaks to a thirst for learning that knows no bounds. Through the corridors of time, I inhabit the essence of a revered poet, capturing the nature of their contemplations like a slow-motion revelation. This unveils a realm where creativity intertwines with the extraordinary. In these moments of revelation, the remarkable gift of insight reveals itself, painting a canvas of boundless possibilities.
Cheers to the journey of discovery and enlightenment.
Robert Sherriff
CLICK ON LINKS
CLICK ON LINKS
https://www.booktopia.com.au/my-god-how-great-thou-art-robert-sherriff/book/9781913289553.html
https://www.booktopia.com.au/nobody-s-home-robert-sherriff/book/9781912639335.html
https://www.booktopia.com.au/dirkbell-robert-sherriff/book/9781912639342.html
