A Life - As It Was - Prologue. Prologue

Hi I'm Chris.

I live, work and was born in the UK. I'm an ok sort of guy, which is surprising really considering some of the things I've been through and I can get a bit cranky at times, hey we all do. What 'things' might they be you ask, well for now let's just say that I've had some professional help with those issues. It was once suggested to me that I write my story, partly for therapeutic reasons and partly because its interesting. I gave that idea a lot of thought over the years and decided to put it on the 'back burner'. Now I'm approaching retirement I think is a good time to tell all.

So as best I can remember it, this is the story of my early life as it was in all it's gory reality. You may ask why I use the word gory, well that's a fair question and the simple answer is, at times it was gory and frightening, sometimes very frightening, at least it was for me.

I'm going on some very early memories so which at times may be somewhat dis-jointed and will include a few flash-backs, they can be identified by the change in font. I will also tell my story from the perspective of others or even a general perspective. These parts are the best I can remember from conversations with my family, yes I did get one and they were very loving. They have all passed away now and I do miss them.

The most important people, including me.

Chris - Christopher Edward Johnson/Payne. 5 years old at the start. That's me.

Carl John Payne. You will soon discover who this lovable guy is, he was and still is very important to me.

Jack Payne. Carls Dad and my hero, just read the story.

Maggie – Margret Payne. 'Super-mum' well she is to me.

As this is my early life story the characters will grow as the story progresses. I may tell you the rest at some time, I don't know yet, I've still to decide. There will be some jumps in time, this is where there is nothing to tell and doesn't detract from the story line.

Naturally I have changed some detail like character and place names, this is to protect the innocent and in some instances the guilty.

I'm rambling on a bit now but my story starts from just after turning 5 years old. Now let's get on with it..............................