As I'm sure many of you have, I’ve recently spent time up in the attic digging out old photos from when Gem and I were young, long before the days of the digital camera.

Along with some absolutely gems (or should that be Gems?)… the girls’ holiday to Corfu, a trip to Wimbledon, the many school discos and dances, cuddles on the sofa… I came across so many letters and cards, all branded with her adorable ‘A Smile Creation by Gems’.

I found a note that Gem sent to me when I was having a difficult time at university, and I wanted to share some of it with you. I think you’ll agree that it sums Gems up. Even when she herself was going through the most challenging times, she was there for me. And despite all the setbacks she faced, she showed the utmost courage and never, ever gave up.

A message from Gems:

To give you courage and hope I want to share with you these wise words the present Dalai Lama of Tibet sent to us:

“Never give up”

Never give up, no matter what is going on
Develop the heart; Too much energy is spent on developing the mind, instead of the heart; Develop the heart
Be compassionate, not just to your friends, but to everyone
Be compassionate, work for peace, in your heart and in the world
And I say again: Never give up, no matter what is happening, no matter what is going on around you, never give up.