'I have recently turned 60 and am viewing the world and the people in it in a more reflective, mellow, philosophical way now. A lot more than half my time in this life is over, but that's not a morose though.

Instead, this is a time therefore for reflection on the things that matter, things that affect my life and the lives of those around me.' In this book of consideration and appreciation, best-selling author and broadcaster Mary Kennedy takes stock of her life and what is important in it.

She considers what makes us strong, and how we can develop resilience in the world through knowing ourselves from within, and knowing our roots. She considers the nature of family and friendship too, and how a mother's role changes over time. Beauty - 'the eyes of the heart', food, fashion and the creative arts are all explored, along with honest reflections on the challenges and uncertainties of life, and how we maintain hope and faith in the face of loss.

Ultimately, she asks how, as we get older, we can change our world for the better, for those who follow in our footsteps.