I had the greatest of pleasures celebrating Christmas, at the ‘Together at Christmas‘ Carols Service in December 2021 by invitation of Royalty – the Duchess of Cambridge.
One of the greatest drivers in life is belonging. So, human beings function at the optimum, in the collective. And it is, of course, the collective that drives Edventure. There is power in focusing on the ‘bigger picture’ from a local perspective. This ‘picture’ can thus be different for us all – creating opportunities for ourselves in working life, our planetary concerns, supporting those around us and making a difference in the lives of others. The collective is a space of comfort, joy, and community.
Altruism
The reasons we (as organisations and individuals) focus on the collective can be purely altruistic. They could even be selfish (doing good releases endorphins and makes us feel amazing). But does that matter? The tasks still progress, evolve and happen; and it is the outcome that is important.
Often this happens in the background. Not everything appears in the local papers or on social media. It just happens.
Until someone notices and recognises what you do.
The Co-Op has wonderful relationships with local businesses and non-profit organisations. They got to nominate organisations and individuals for the Duchess of Cambridge. The focus was on people who are making a difference on the lives of those who need support, direction, and community. As a thank you, the invitation was to attend a carols service at Westminster Abbey: Together at Christmas.
Edventure got the call!
Laura Emptage and I were nominated to represent Edventure in London.
What a privilege to represent an organisation that brings people together in all the work we do.
The ‘Buckingham Palace’ stamped invitation dropped through the door and the excitement became real. What was I to wear to a royal event? ‘No hats’ was specified and ‘smart, but comfortable’ was important. And of course, the Covid tests before the event with evidence to show on the day.
We were off to London
When we stepped into the Abbey, we felt a part of something amazing! Laura and I were amongst others, across the UK who were changing lives! To our one side was a couple from Belfast who are working in alcohol rehabilitation. And on our other side a couple working with the elderly.
The service was a powerful emotive experience which included the royal contingent of:
- William – Duke of Cambridge
- Catherine – Duchess of Cambridge
- Zara and Mike Phillips
- Princess Beatrice
- Princess Eugenie
- Pippa Middleton
- Mr and Mrs Middleton
Well-known political and charity personalities
The Christmas Carols Service was a real treat! We got to enjoy music, songs, readings, poetry and insights from William, the Dean of Westminster, Leona Lewis, Lemn Sissay, Aaron Shepard, the Westminster Boys Choir, Ellie Goulding, Kate Garraway and more.
It was an awe-inspiring experience in a building that has brought people together and seen the celebration of life for hundreds of years.
Most importantly, we felt that Edventure has been recognised, is appreciated, and belongs! We belong to the collective of the human race, on our very special and precious planet. Even though, at Edventure we make a difference under a banner and a brand, we represented all those making a difference daily in all they do – and often not being noticed.
Thank you to the Co-Op for recognising Edventure.
Thank you to the Duchess of Cambridge for appreciating us.
And thank you to Frome (and beyond) for being part of the collective, the community and the ‘bigger picture’.
