Through the Smoke: A Lens on Life’s Hidden Narratives

Welcome to 'My Journey', a place where the essence of my existence swirls together like wisps of smoke: ephemeral, enigmatic, and always looking ahead. My life, mirroring my work, weaves a complex interplay of light and shadow, capturing fleeting moments that narrate a story far beyond what meets the eye.

The odyssey into the creative realm began through the lens of a camera, my window to the world's hidden narratives. Photography for me transcends being a business; it's a perspective, a means to decipher and convey the world's intricacies. This art has bestowed upon me a unique voice, intertwining reality with imagination, documenting life's candid episodes with an ethereal brushstroke.

Navigating Life's Complex Labyrinth

The Symphony of My Life

But my journey encompasses more than just capturing images. This path is one I tread not in solitude but accompanied by my cherished wife, Parichad, my steadfast companion through the oscillating peaks and troughs of life. Together, we bask in the comfort and joy brought by our beloved dogs, Dinky and NooDee, whose boundless love and whimsical behaviour furnish daily doses of inspiration and solace.

My fervour for history and narrative extends beyond personal confines, materialising in the establishment and management of online platforms dedicated to the intricate narratives of yesteryears. From the barren volcanic rocks of Aden to the rugged terrains of Perim Island, I dive into history's depths, resurrecting long-forgotten tales to enlighten contemporary minds. This historical voyage transcends mere fact recitation; it's an endeavour to connect with our collective legacy, to comprehend the dynamics shaping our now and hereafter.

Discovering the joy of writing has been a revelation akin to uncovering a hidden treasure within myself. Once, I believed my thoughts and expressions were bound solely to the visual realm, conveyed through the lens of my camera. Yet, I've found a new avenue for my creativity in the art of writing, an outlet that allows me to weave creative insights and embellishments into words, much like the intricate details captured in my photographs.

The old adage 'a picture says a thousand words' has long resonated with me, but I've come to embrace a new mantra of my own: 'few words can a picture make.' This phrase has gained unexpected depth and relevance over the past year, particularly with the advent of artificial intelligence, enabling us to craft vivid images from mere text. The written word has become not just a method of communication, but a profound creative tool, opening new horizons for my artistic journey.

Evolving Tastes: Community, Simplicity, and Self-Discovery

At my core, I don’t feel a strong personal connection to community, yet paradoxically, I lead an expansive online network of 375,000 street photography enthusiasts. This group isn’t just a gallery for showcasing images; it’s a place where photographers connect, share insights, and grow together in their artistic journeys. It has become a thriving community, despite my not being naturally inclined towards community-building.

I've noticed a shift in my preferences and pleasures, a transformation that's as natural as the changing of seasons. The once appealing ritual of dressing up to go out for an evening meal has lost its charm; today, I find solace in the comfort of casual attire, mirroring the simplicity I now seek in life. My culinary tastes have similarly evolved, gravitating towards the uncomplicated joys of traditional fare.

Say 'Hi' to family member, Dinky

Give me the hearty simplicity of beans on toast, the quintessential British comfort of fish and chips with a pickled egg and mushy peas, or the timeless satisfaction of a Sunday roast beef lunch, followed by the sweet nostalgia of apple crumble with custard. Even a humble cheese and beetroot sandwich suffices as a delightful snack. This shift extends to the modern coffee shop culture, where finding the basics amidst the array of fancy offerings has become a challenge. I yearn for simplicity, for the unadorned and genuine, a reflection of the changes that age gracefully instils in us.

Now, as I navigate the gentler currents of my twilight years, leaving behind the fervour of business ventures for a life adorned with simpler joys, my aspirations have transformed, becoming more intimate, less monumental. Yet, my zest for mentoring the forthcoming generations, guiding them through life's multifaceted challenges and professional quandaries, remains undiminished. So, who is Peter Pickering? A photographer, a historian, a writer, a devoted husband to Parichad, and a friend to all beings, big and small. I'm an explorer of unseen light, a chronicler of hidden tales, and an advocate for the indomitable human spirit. Welcome to my cosmos.

In the in-between, I am a constant voyager, always tracing the delicate lines between realms. Existing in a state of flux, I uncover new facets of reality with every step, never fully one thing or another, always evolving. Beneath the surface lies my subconscious, quietly shaping my thoughts and creativity. It’s in this hidden depth that my dreams, fears, and instincts brew, guiding me like unseen currents, shaping the path ahead.

Yet, my journey stretches beyond the subconscious into the luminous supraliminal, where I step into the role of creator. In this elevated state, I transcend ordinary thinking, molding reality through creativity and imagination. At times, the vividness of my inner world feels isolating, as if I’m guarding a profound story hidden from view. My desire to share this richness with others is both a call for connection and an invitation to explore together.

For a deeper exploration of this journey, read the full article on Unseen Bridges.

Beyond the Veil: My Journey Through Shadow and Light

"The novel of life writes itself, each day a new page filled with endless possibilities."

Below the Surface: Embrace Deeper Insights

Venture into the more secluded corners of my world through the detailed narratives housed under this heading, in Neurodiversity, or in my Blog where the category 'Personal Reflections' serves as a sanctuary for the stories closest to my heart. Within these pages lie reflections crafted from a lifetime of experiences, insights, and adventures. Each post is a testament to the moments and memories that have shaped me, presented with honesty and a touch of whimsy. As you peruse these personal tales, I hope you find pieces of wisdom, laughter, and perhaps a reflection of your own journey. Join me, Peter Pickering, in this exploration of life’s intricate dance, and let’s discover the beauty of shared human experience together.