Vale Jacqueline Willis - updated

It is with a sad heart that I receive the news today of the passing of Jacqui. Jacqui brought a new kind of life to the Reception of WorkSafe and anyone who has had the pleasure of meeting, talking, sharing with Jacqui would have to agree, we have lost a special person this past weekend.

Jacqui suffered a lot, but her suffering was not so obvious, what was obvious was her wit, her heart, her love of people and people she cared for. While our hearts grieve - our minds must know that there is no more suffering, there is no more pain and the wisdom and words that Jacqui shared will always be a part of those in her life.

I won't cry, I won't be too sad, I will stop, reflect and laugh. I will remember the comments as I would pass by reception, the endless witticisms and criticisms, the genuine laughter and caring. If I shed a tear, it will be coated in fond memories. It will be a tribute.

We will miss you Jacqui. I will certainly miss you. Vale Jacqueline Willis.

Somalia bans unrelated men and women from shaking hands, talking #newscomau #Somalia #Islam #alQaeda

The Islamists have also banned the cinema, music and bras because they say they are all un-Islamic. Such restrictions are influenced by foreign fighters practicing Wahhabi Islam, which is much stricter than Somalia's traditional Sufi Islam that incorporates a long tradition of poetry and song.

"The last time I listened a song or music was two years ago, before the insurgents managed the full control of my village," said Bile Hassan. Now, he says, even the memory of music makes him feel afraid.

via news.com.au

This is the world in which we live today.

Sylvestor

Vale Andrew "Drew" Nielsen

This is my brother-in-law Andrew, Michael's younger brother. He was 48. Last week we had the sad duty of attending Andrew's funeral in Albany, Western Australia after Andrew suddenly passed away.

There is almost nothing sadder than watching the pain of a parent laying to rest a child. Andrew, however, has made such an impact to other people's lives, it is almost as if he has lived more than one lifetime.

While Andrew was very much family oriented, he lived away from his family, but at the same time had developed new family with the many friends, colleagues and mates in Sydney (and I really do mean many!).

A funeral is always going to be a difficult and sad time. Meeting so many wonderful people, however, changed the way I saw the event. Seeing so many dedicated friends and listen to their stories about Andrew brought not only sadness but laughter and gratitude for what Andrew brought to so many people's lives. The talker. The practical joker. The dedicated and generous mate. You could instantly tell how loved Andrew is and always will be.

Although it has been a terribly emotional and sad period in our family, we have been reminded of the impact Andrew had on so many people throughout his life. This provides some comfort.

Rest in peace dear brother.