BY NUALA MCALOON
Tomorrow marks the start of a New Year and for many of us that means saying goodbye to the old and starting the new afresh.
And this year, for anyone lucky enough to have got a hold of 'Inspirational Thoughts Diary 2009', the New Year diary will not only be used for marking important dates, but will be put to good use as a thought-provoking experience incorporating a message, both practical and inspiring for every day of the year.
That's thanks to a project carried out by the staff and pupils of Killyhommon Primary School, Boho which has resulted in a beautifully illustrated diary featuring uplifting messages, funny and heart-warming reflections and motivational tips as well as colourful drawings illustrated by the pupils themselves.
According to it's authors, 'by passing inspirational messages from one person to another, it is helping to create a positive shift in values on this planet and a better world for us all. This diary contains messages to help the reader live a better life, be more joyful and embrace each day with hope, strength and courage'.
So, from 'doing something wild and wonderful', 'eating cake', 'focusing on what really needs doing' and 'forgiving the one you need to most', there really is something for everyone in this book.
Such is the popularity of the diary that having sold like hot cakes since being produced in November, it is now sold out. And, demand continues.
The school Principal Eileen McKenzie explained: "The diary came about through work completed with the children over the course of the year through the curriculum. It was based on positivity and aspiration. The project was then put together for the diary. The writing is for adults, not children. There were a lot of contributors, including children, parents and local and the children drew the illustrations."
The book is selling at £5 and the proceeds are going towards Children in Crossfire.
Derry man, Richard Moore, who founded the charity, and was blinded when hit by a rubber bullet, has written the foreword. Keeping with the theme of positivity, he explained how blindness had been both a positive and challenging experience for him.
Eileen McKenzie charted the book's progress: "Since mid-November, we have sold 2,000 copies. These were distributed through schools, not only in Fermanagh but across the country. And it was also distributed through The Graan. It's not going to be reprinted but, next year, we hope to gather more material and get more famous people in Ireland to help and not have it date specific, so that it can be reproduced."
As well creating a positive stir in the community, the production of the Diary has also proved a positive experience for staff and pupils at Killyhommon.
"From the school's point of view', Eileen went on, " the book has generated a good feeling of well-being and positivity. There is a great feel good factor.
"I am amazed that there are so many people out there who need what I would call 'soul food'. The response has been great.
"It has gone all over the country, to counties such as Clare and people just want more copies.
"But, the general response has been that the book is absolutely beautiful and appropriate, and that there is something in it for everyone. It's not religious, it just has Christian messages. It features quotes from all kinds of people, including the Dali Lama and Ghandi.
"It has huge appeal and there seems to be a need for people to read that sort of thing and have it in their lives.
"There are enough negatives in the media with the current gloomy financial crisis and I even hear the children in the school using the phrase 'credit crunch', so it's nice to have something uplifting to give hope for everyday."
