James B Alexander

Let's Face a Truth. James B Alexander

Darren Samuels was a young man with typical teenage growing pains. Pains which were frustrating for those who loved him dearly. Darren's father Naman, knew his son could end up in the hands of the law, unless he dramatically changed his ways. After seemingly being unable to bring some basic discipline to Darren's life, Naman and his wife Mamie came to a far-reaching decision. Darren was headed for a real wakeup call, which Naman realised would come through spending time with his great grandmother Nima, in a small settlement called 'Coriben' in the Southern reaches of Western Australia. The challenge was, he is an Australian Aboriginal, and with that comes even higher expectations, of what his future should be. This old woman had a real affinity for her culture, and an understanding of the value of rules, honesty, and good standards of behaviour. She had seen much in her long life. Her values were wrought from past disappointments, and an understanding of the new order of things, in what was basically a white man's world. Nima would have a huge influence on Darren, as he struggled to come to grips, with the difference of life in a small settlement. Darren's story is one of real achievement. It is a touching story, with real lessons and real disappointments. Darren is no different to thousands of young people. He has desires, dreams, goals, and fantasies. Darren's story carries some strong messages for us all. It blends culture into modern life, and shows a path forward for all who seek a better way of life. It is an empathetic warm, and at times tear jerking account of life, in the bush of Western Australia. Darren's story is just that, an account of a boy growing into a man.