How writing helps one Hemlington tenant’s wellbeing | Tenant news

Habinteg tenant Sandra McDougal has enjoyed the therapeutic benefits that writing brings throughout her adult life.

Writing has always come naturally to Sandra, who has lived at Habinteg's Hemlington scheme for over 35 years.

“I enjoy writing poems and short stories, including children’s stories,” she says. “It has helped me through some hard times, including the last two years of the pandemic.”

Sandra wrote this poem many years ago for her daughter who is now 34 years old, and she hopes it will encourage other tenants to unleash their creativity to enhance their wellbeing too.

My Message to You

The day that you were born to me,
You filled my heart with joy,
Dark curling hair, you were my girl,
You couldn’t be a boy.

I held you close against my breast,
To keep you safe from harm,
You felt so soft, so vulnerable,
I just had to keep you warm.

I gazed into those big blue eyes,
That stared back into mine,
I knew right then I’d keep you safe,
And everything was fine.

Months passed by, then into years,
Till you were fully grown.
You need to find your way in life,
And never be alone.

My hopes for you grow greater,
And I hope you do your best,
You’ll find life hard and arduous,
Putting you to the test.

So tread your way with caution,
Take care don’t go astray,
Take care to do the right thing,
As you go on your way.

Please make me proud my daughter,
And hold your head up high,
I’ll always be there for you,
However hard you try.