Things I Would Have Told My Mother

This book is a collection of thoughts dating back well over a decade of publication in newspapers, blogs and speeches. Some of the views I still hold firmly, some I would question with the value of hindsight, and some I now think are wrong.The ability to change one's mind is perhaps a trait that we do not value enough in society. When a politician does change his or her mind, we are tempted to call them a 'flip-flopper', but surely, with new experiences and new information, only a fool would not question previous views. Some may change and some may stay the same, but the ability to put and debate opinions is one of the most important things in our society.My mother died in 1987 following a 6 month long battle with a brain tumour. At the time I was just 20, turning 21 years old. In the intervening two decades I have experienced, through my work with the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations, wars and natural disasters. I have lived in rich and poor countries, and have tried my little bit to make the world better.I have had good fortune to experience many things in life. These experiences, both positive and negative have informed and formed my views. I am a positive person and think we can make a difference - but at times we have to question the status quo and challenge 'conventional thinking'.I hope you enjoy reading these views. I hope you agree with some, disagree with some and that none leave you feeling ambivalent.Andrew MacLeodJune 2012