Who I Am – And Why I Write This Blog

My name is (Ken Ayres), and I'm 69 years old. I was born in Barton, Oxford, and spent part of my childhood in Glasgow, Scotland. It was a pretty tough environment back then, and after five years, we moved back to England.

As a young footballer, I showed a lot of promise. I played for England Schoolboys and Oxford Boys, and at 15 I signed as an apprentice with Manchester United. I played a few games for the reserves and turned professional at 17. Later, I moved to Crystal Palace and made a few first-team appearances. I also spent time playing in South Africa, but nearly lost my life in a serious car crash. I eventually got back on my feet — but by then, my drinking had become a problem. Palace weren't happy with me, and honestly, I can't blame them.

Eventually, I came to Norway and continued playing football for FK Jerv in Grimstad and a few other clubs.

Today I live in Larvik, Norway. I've been married to a truly wonderful woman for nearly 42 years. We have two children and three beautiful grandchildren. Time really does fly — never wish your life away.

Like most people, I've had my ups and downs. I gave up drinking over 30 years ago, and I thank the Lord I'm still here. I've always had a deep interest in young people, and I've worked with them in many ways — as a football coach, in youth clubs, through social services, and with foster children. I've also worked with adults, and I have four years of education in mental health and nursing. Encouragement has always been at the heart of what I try to offer — because it's needed now more than ever.

That word — encouragement — means so much to me. It brings tears to my eyes when I see how many kids today are crying out for someone to believe in them. A kind word. A little hope. Some guidance. I've tried to be that voice when I can.

The blog is called RIST, a name that comes from a youth group we started back in 2001. In Norwegian, the letters stand for Ressurser, Informasjon, Sosialt nettverk og Trygghet — which roughly translates to Resources, Information, Social Network, and Safety. It's not easy to translate directly, but the meaning behind it is about support, connection, and security — things we all need, especially young people.

The blog started when someone I work with said, "Why don't you write a blog?" I thought it was a joke — but we gave it a try. What began as a bit of fun has turned into something more serious and meaningful.

My blogging partner is Raymond Andersen, a Norwegian friend and colleague. He helps me with the Norwegian side of the writing, and he's also very good in English. Without his support and sharp eye for language, this wouldn't be possible.

From August, we'll be writing in both English and Norwegian. I still can't believe the amount of interest we've received here in Norway. We are truly grateful to everyone who takes the time to read, comment, and share.

We post a small piece every Monday, and new blog entries every Tuesday and Thursday. Some of the posts are tough, but they're always honest — and always hopeful. Life can be hard, but there is always a way forward.

I hope you find something in RIST that speaks to you.

And remember —
If you're thinking of killing yourself, do it tomorrow. The world needs you today.

Take care of yourselves

Thanks for stopping by Raymond Andersen and Ken Ayres