BOB’S SERENDIPITY FETE

I have not always been a good man. I have done many things that I regret. To those I have hurt, I offer my apologies. I have tried to do right by people, but I have been inadequate as a husband and lover in some respects.This book is based on my memories, and mine are imperfect. I have done my best to be faithful to my experiences, and when possible, I have consulted others who were also present during that time.Imagine meeting an interesting person and getting to know them. It would take time, and in subsequent conversations with the person, he may inadvertently tell you something that you have already heard before.Memory at my age can be faulty, and in this long book, I have tried to be as clear as possible, but getting to know me as a real person, you may find that I refer to something more than once.If I had the time and money, I might have had the entire book rewritten and edited by a professional, but that would not be the real me, so please forgive my shortcomings.I was born on August 19, 1939. Who in their right mind starts their first book at my age? My family cannot understand my obsession with finishing this book. It has taken over my life. I am talking to you, the reader, as I would talk to a therapist. I often repeat myself. This is not a well-written book, but it is the best I can do.I have limited time. I feel well, but one never knows, so I really want to finish this book and strive for perfection. No. Nothing is perfect. It is my memoir, as I recall. I am a mere mortal. Please do not expect too much. I think you will find this book interesting and thought-provoking. If that is the case, then I am happy.Some parts of my memoir may be contentious. I make no assumptions or accusations but only present the facts as I know them. It is for you to interpret these facts and come to your own conclusion. If there are mistakes, then I apologise.I am now 84 years old and have done my best, to be honest. Life can take some surprising turns. I have also worked hard and done my best despite suffering from Crohn's disease since the age of fifteen. I tried to live by the Golden Rule, as should we all. However bad life seems or how low your self-esteem is, one little event in your life can suddenly change your future.

My life from 1939 until 1979. Losing one's family is the worst that can happen to anyone. How and why did it happen? We shall never know. The secret went to the grave. This is not a sob story but an inspirational account of my life. When all is lost. Bob never gave up. Serendipity can change your life1957 ST JOHNS TRAIN CRASHOn the evening of December 4, 1957, two trains crashed in dense fog on the south-eastern Main Line near Lewisham in south-east London, causing the deaths of ninety people and injuring 173.WAS THIS DESTINY?The 5.18 from Charing Cross station was the train we always caught. On returning home to Brockley, we saw a police car outside of our house. We went in, and I saw my mother in what I can only describe as a state of anguish. When she saw us, she was overwhelmed. She hugged me like she had not done for many years.A policeman was also in the kitchen. I looked at him and asked what the big deal was. I have just driven home in the fog. The car packed up, and we went to the cinema, and now we are here. What's the drama?He said the train that your mother said you normally catch had crashed along with two other trains, and as you were not home on time, obviously there was a strong possibility you could have been involved, either killed or injured. Your parents contacted us; that is why we are here. How come you did not catch your usual train? I explained, and he said, You are indeed one hell of a lucky young man. We were so lucky not to have been on that train, though my thoughts that night watching the TV reporting from the scene were the tragedy of all those lives lost