A long distance from the capital city, Minsk, but proudly standing in the South Eastern corner of Belarus there is situated the industrial town of Mozyr. Not just any town but a special town. It's height on the hills allows it to gaze over the river and the lowlands in its surrounds. It dominates the landscape for many miles and its people have those qualities of life that make them different to the world outside - the world that I have experienced. When you grow up with a way of life, unaware of how the world has really developed, then I am convinced that you do not fully appreciate the riches you have and the contribution you can make to the world. In these few pages, I would like in this small way, to share my experiences with a wider audience. I am jealous of too many people sharing my "secret place" but I must divulge at least some of my secrets.

Let us never forget the terrible disaster of Chernobyl, and the tribulations that many have gone through since, but let us not mention it again and give thanks for a town that has evolved into the brightest of jewels.