Becoming 60

The Journey Continues

As I reflect on turning 60 and the journey that has brought me to this milestone, I'm struck by the profound changes that have unfolded during my lifetime, both in the world at large and in my beloved hometown of Dunfermline.

Me, age 2

A Changing World

The past six decades have witnessed remarkable transformations in technology, society, and global affairs. When I was born, the space race was beginning, and now we have rovers exploring Mars. The internet, smartphones, and social media have revolutionised how we communicate and access information. Climate change has emerged as a pressing global concern, reshaping our relationship with the environment.

Dunfermline: A Town in Transition

With its rich history dating back to medieval times, Dunfermline has also seen significant changes over those years. The town's industrial landscape has shifted dramatically since my childhood. Once a thriving centre for coal mining and textile production, Dunfermline has adapted to the changing economic tides. The closure of many traditional industries led to challenging times, but Dunfermline has shown remarkable resilience. New businesses and sectors have emerged, breathing fresh life into the local economy. The expansion of nearby Edinburgh has also influenced Dunfermline's development, with many residents now commuting to the capital for work.

A busy place, 1960s

Cultural Renaissance

One of the most heartening changes I've witnessed is the cultural renaissance in Dunfermline. The Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries opening in 2017 marked a significant milestone, celebrating the town's heritage while providing a modern cultural hub. The annual Outwith Festival, which has launched in recent years, has further invigorated the local arts scene. Of course, the return of The Bruce Festival, which we organised, was a tremendous success, which we will continue to build upon in the coming years. Fire Station Creative is a place I hold dear to my heart as I was involved in setting it up, and it has been a delight to see it have a bit of a renaissance in recent times, mainly due to a change in management and venues such as The Alhambra and PJ Malloys continue to attract great acts. Whilst it remains to be seen how the recent city status given to Dunfermline will change things for the better, I can tell you that there is no shortage of ideas and willing bodies to put those projects into practice.

Fire Station Creative

Personal Reflections

As I enter my seventh decade, I find myself in a place of reflection and anticipation. Like many of my generation, I'm transitioning from middle age to what society often labels as "old age". However, I prefer to think of this new chapter as the "Savour-it Sixties" – a time to cherish experiences, deepen relationships, and perhaps pursue long-held dreams. My perspective on life has undoubtedly shifted over the years. The urgency of youth has given way to a more measured approach, and I find myself valuing quality over quantity in many aspects of life. Yet, there's still a spark of excitement for what lies ahead. Looking back on the changes that have shaped my life and hometown, I’m filled with gratitude and wonder. Dunfermline, like me, has weathered challenges and embraced opportunities. As we both enter this new chapter, I'm eager to see what the future holds for myself and the place that has been the backdrop to so much of my life's story.

Thank you for reading. Until next time…