Who is Selma?

Hello ! I’m Selma Sergent. I was born in Scotland, grew up in Ireland and moved to Sydney, Australia when I was in my early teens. I am now in my early 40s, married, with an almost teenage son. I live in the inner city. If I walk to the end of my street I can see Sydney Harbour. If I walk to my local park I can see traces of a working port along with two million dollar superyachts. I see people working out with personal trainers alongside homeless men sleeping on park benches. Sometimes the urban environment highlights the good and bad in our society in one succinct snapshot.

I’m a freelance writer and work part-time for a small publisher in Sydney. I am constantly waiting for my ship to come in. I often feel like I don’t belong. I worry about a lot of things – the unequal distribution of wealth in the world, global warming, war in the name of religion, whether or not Paris Hilton will ever open that rehabilitation centre for female DUI offenders. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance to write about them all.

So welcome to Selma In The City. Thank you for visiting.

68 Responses

  1. meleah rebeccah, on August 22nd, 2007 at 11:39 pm Said:

    NICE TO MEET YOU SELMA!!!

  2. Laurie Anne, on October 26th, 2007 at 12:48 am Said:

    I LOVE your profile.

  3. josie2shoes, on October 28th, 2007 at 2:25 pm Said:

    Hi Selma, thanks for stopping by my blog! This is a great profile intro – it tells me that I’m going to find your blog an interesting place to visit!

  4. Lauri (aka LoloK), on November 19th, 2007 at 1:05 pm Said:

    Hi Selma,
    Great profile. I stumbled across this for my”research” for the Xmas card exchange. I can really identify with the way that you’re feeling. Since I didn’t seem to fit where I was supposed to fit, I ran away to where I knew I’d never fit so that I no longer needed to worry about that. I also suffer from some of your same worries. This world! Who will set it right?? Maybe you.

    Great writing in the blog too!

  5. travelrat, on November 19th, 2007 at 1:50 pm Said:

    Dumela Mma!

    Surprising who you meet here!

    Keith (Travelrat)

  6. Selma, on November 19th, 2007 at 10:18 pm Said:

    LoloK – what an honour to be visited by you. Thank you so much. Sounds like you and Keith are old friends!

    Josie – so sorry I didn’t respond to this before. I am thrilled you are visiting because I am such a fan of your blog.

    Laurie Anne – thank you so much. Sorry for the late response.

  7. Jim, on December 10th, 2007 at 12:40 pm Said:

    Ya duffer Selma, ….I think you are worried about too many things that you have no control over.
    I meant “duffer” in a nice way by the way. No malice intended!

    Cheers, Jim.

  8. Michelle York/umauma, on December 10th, 2007 at 3:39 pm Said:

    I love to read your writing!

  9. Selma, on December 11th, 2007 at 12:17 pm Said:

    Jim – It’s true. I am a chronic worrier. Welcome!

    Michelle – you are soooo kind. Thank you! Glad you stopped by.

  10. Gypsy, on January 7th, 2008 at 6:19 am Said:

    I was already delighted to have met you but now I know you are a fellow Aussie I am going straight home to my blog to add you to my blog roll. Hope that’s ok? Btw, I see we have some mutual friends in Josie and Laurie Anne. I have a feeling you and I will have a lot more in common besides where we live and our friends. Can’t wait to find out.

  11. Selma, on January 7th, 2008 at 10:08 am Said:

    Gypsy – I would be delighted and I would love to add you to mine. We Aussies must stick together!

  12. Bonnie Jacobs, on January 22nd, 2008 at 7:11 am Said:

    I have added you to my blog list, and I’m happy to have found you.

  13. Selma, on January 22nd, 2008 at 12:26 pm Said:

    Hi Bonnie. Thanks so much for stopping by and for adding me. I am on my way over to visit you!

  14. Sandra, on February 7th, 2008 at 5:41 pm Said:

    Hello Selma! I have been researching the transition from CFC inhalers to HFA inhalers. I saw your posting that they had changed all the inhalers in Australia and they don’t work. Is it possible for you to tell me a liitle about that? I have written both patients and medical people around the world to learn more about the patient perspective on this transition. It’s the first time patients have ever had to change their medicines because of environmental concerns. I would appreciate it if you have any stories to share about this issue. Thank you and have a wonderful day. Sandra, New Jersey, USA

  15. Puddock, on February 19th, 2008 at 11:59 pm Said:

    Hi Selma!

    Thanks for stopping by my blog. I love the internet! Meeting people from the other side of the world and finding out you have lots in common. SYdney must be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. I visited there briefly many years ago and it really stuck with me. Hope you and your husband are well.

    Hugs from sunny Scotland!

  16. Selma, on February 21st, 2008 at 9:29 am Said:

    PUDDOCK – so lovely of you to stop by. I am originally from Scotland so am really enjoying your blog. Nice to meet you!

  17. nectarfizz, on February 21st, 2008 at 9:36 pm Said:

    I think I like you, yes, yes, I think I do.

  18. Selma, on February 22nd, 2008 at 1:02 am Said:

    NECTARFIZZ – I appreciate you stopping by and am glad you think you like me. I’m a nice person, really, well, most of the time. Good to meet you!

  19. johnnypeepers, on February 23rd, 2008 at 3:06 am Said:

    Hey Selma,

    Thank you for the recent comment you made on my blog. What I was talking about does not make as much sense to people unless they can put into context, or attach a human face to the crisis. I know that when people read what you wrote they will think twice about this “product.” When it is anonymous, remote, and does not affect anyone they know, people are distant and uncaring. I think you helped to correct that erroneous perception.
    Thank you for being a mate.

  20. Selma, on February 23rd, 2008 at 3:38 am Said:

    JOHNNY – it is my pleasure. Any time. It is a very important issue and one I feel passionately about. Thanks for raising it.

  21. Lisa Allender, on March 8th, 2008 at 7:22 pm Said:

    Hi Selma–found you through Poet With A Day Job.
    I found your profile witty, fun, touching…just like your writing!Keep up the great work, lady!
    Peace
    Lisa Allender
    come read me, post a coment.
    http://www.lisananetteallender.blogspot.com/

  22. Selma, on March 10th, 2008 at 2:54 am Said:

    LISA – thanks so much for visiting. I love POET WITH A DAY JOB. One of my fave blogging buddies. So nice to meet you!

  23. Ken, on March 26th, 2008 at 10:31 pm Said:

    Hi Selma

    Please contact me for advertising opportunity.

    Hope to hear from you.

    Thanks.

    - Ken.

  24. AuraGem, on April 3rd, 2008 at 5:49 pm Said:

    Hi Selma,

    Just letting you know there is an expat Sydneysider around, currently living on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria.

    My blog is mostly poetry, but at times the news moves me to other writings.

    Love your blog!

    Gemma

  25. Selma, on April 6th, 2008 at 6:03 pm Said:

    AURAGEM – thanks so much for visiting. I didn’t realise you were an expat. How wonderful to live on the Mornington Peninsula. It is such a gorgeous part of Australia. I am a very big fan of your poetry. I hope you have been successful in getting published because you should be – you are very talented. Take care.

  26. Glenn, on April 14th, 2008 at 2:58 pm Said:

    Selma,

    Saw your comment on Peepers Blog and decided to check yours out. I believe we have much in common. I am a retired Political Journalist, although I still blog a great deal. I can empathize with your professional situation.

    I also have a huge heart for the poor, and especially homeless. I have been a Socialist-Democrat for 35 years, so I am clearly all about equal distribution of wealth, as every human being is valuable and part of the big puzzle.

    I understand you recently got a new prime minister. Congratulations. My understanding was the old one was way too conservative.

    Great Blog!
    Glenn

  27. Selma, on April 14th, 2008 at 10:06 pm Said:

    GLENN – how lovely of you to stop by. I applaud and agree with your outlook on life. So you won’t be voting for John McCain then? Haha. Hurray for our new PM. It’s about time, that’s all I can say – so much damage has been done by his predecessor. I am looking forward to coming over and visiting your blog.

  28. Glenn, on April 15th, 2008 at 10:14 am Said:

    Thank you Selma. BTW: I also have a spiritual blog I believe you would like:

    http://freespirit1980.wordpress.com/

    I do plan on spending some time here in Selmaville. It seems like a very loving, safe place!

    Peace,
    Glenn

  29. Selma, on April 15th, 2008 at 11:37 pm Said:

    GLENN – you are so kind. I will visit you shortly.

  30. veggiesyarnsandtails, on April 28th, 2008 at 3:02 am Said:

    You are one of my favorite stops on my (almost) daily blog-stroll. It’s almost daily ’cause I force myself NOT to turn on this computer, at least 1 day a week. Give my poor eyes a much needed rest. LOVE to stop by and see what’s new at Selma’s . Great posts! Huggs, G

    http://www.mypoeticpath.wordpress.com

  31. Selma, on April 30th, 2008 at 9:50 am Said:

    GERALDINE – I really appreciate your support. I know what you mean about the eyes. Too much blogging= too much squinting. It is fun though. Wonderful community. You have made my day!

  32. Ashley K. Edwards, on June 24th, 2008 at 5:31 am Said:

    Great blog! Nice layout, and you obviously have content folks respond to. Keep up the good work.

  33. Selma, on June 25th, 2008 at 10:56 pm Said:

    ASHLEY – thanks so much. Very kind of you!

  34. Flora Morris Brown, Ph.D., on July 10th, 2008 at 4:56 pm Said:

    Hi Selma,

    It’s great to discover your blog and enjoy your great writing.

    Thank you for stopping by my blog.

    Looking forward to visiting here often.

  35. Selma, on July 10th, 2008 at 5:01 pm Said:

    FLORA – I enjoy your blog very much too. Love the positive outlook. We need more of it in this world!

  36. Manchild, on October 3rd, 2008 at 6:40 pm Said:

    Hello Selma,

    I’m a first-time who found you because of your recent comment about Mr. Troy Davis. I live in the metro Atlanta area and am actively working to help free Mr. Davis.

    The U.S. Supreme Court issued a “Stay Of Execution” so Mr. Davis may soon get the trial he deserves to save his life.

    Manchild

  37. Selma, on October 3rd, 2008 at 9:12 pm Said:

    MANCHILD – what a truly good person you are. I have voiced my support for Mr. Davis via Amnesty International but if I can help in any further way, please let me know. I cannot imagine the anguish he must feel being on Death Row for all those years when he is an innocent man. I applaud you in your efforts and wish you every success. You have given me hope for a better world.

  38. Chris, on November 26th, 2008 at 2:34 pm Said:

    Hi Selma,
    I’m just listening to Led Zeppelin’s, “Stairway to Heaven” on the radio and thought of you. It must have been part of that “The Criss-Cross Day” post.
    “She appears to be rising from the water………she had descended from the heavens.”

    You know that ship that you’re waiting for? I can see a war canoe on the horizon now and its being paddled by an awful lot of ‘warriors’. You might have to do a, ‘Who is Selma Now’, update soon!

    “That all are one and one is all, to be a rock and not to roll!”

  39. Chris, on November 26th, 2008 at 2:56 pm Said:

    Hi Selma,
    Sorry but I have to pop this one on too, hope (lots and lots) that you don’t mind?

    Surrealism and synchronicity have both struck at the same time, the station has now just played The Beatles, “Let it Be”.
    “There will be an answer” and “Whisper words of wisdom (what you do with your posts), Let it be!”

    This is not rampant flattery either, just stating what I think. Now I am going to run away to my ‘hidey hole’, I hope that the leprechauns don’t get me (not worried about the ventriloquists’ dummies, I’ve read The Dummies guide to Dummies!)? :)

  40. Selma, on November 27th, 2008 at 11:00 am Said:

    CHRIS – there is definitely a synchronicity effect going on here. Thank you for your kind comments and support. Much appreciated!

  41. Hazel Jones, on December 26th, 2008 at 5:13 pm Said:

    Hi,

    I’m Hazel Jones and I work in a company interested in blog advertising. I found your blog engaging and I’m contacting you to ask if you are interested in blog post sponsorship.

    If you are interested, kindly mail back at teamcasino[at]dcemail[dot]com, indicating the url of your blog for reference, and I’ll send you back pricing details, guidelines and processes. Looking forward to doing business with you.

    Sincerely,

    Hazel Jones

  42. Lulu, on December 30th, 2008 at 1:47 pm Said:

    Hi Selma, I am reading some of your blogs- I know your blog from Bobby’s blog
    nice meeting you.

  43. Selma, on December 30th, 2008 at 9:17 pm Said:

    HAZEL – thanks for the offer but I am keeping this blog ad free. Kind of you to offer, however!

    LULU – how nice of you to drop by. I really appreciate it!

  44. dana, on January 11th, 2009 at 3:00 am Said:

    Selma…I came by via Gypsy….and you know, i think I found a jewel of a heart… A day is always much brighter when one finds a new jewel.

  45. Selma, on January 11th, 2009 at 10:55 pm Said:

    DANA:
    I agree. How kind of you to say so. Any friend of Gypsy’s is definitely welcome here!!

  46. Richard Whackman, on January 15th, 2009 at 5:38 am Said:

    Thanks to your change of format, I’ve read your “about me” section. Even after following your blog for all these months, I still feel like I know you better now.

  47. Selma, on January 15th, 2009 at 3:19 pm Said:

    Oh boy, I really need to update that, I think. Glad you liked it!

  48. bocahbancar, on January 15th, 2009 at 9:48 pm Said:

    Hi Selma..

    Nice to meet You..

    I’m Indonesian People/..

  49. Selma, on January 15th, 2009 at 10:34 pm Said:

    Selamat Pagi.
    Thanks for dropping by!

  50. Sandy, on February 5th, 2009 at 11:55 pm Said:

    My first time here, and I love it! This is a great blog.

  51. Selma, on February 6th, 2009 at 10:43 am Said:

    SANDY:
    It is a real honour to be visited by you. I am such a fan of your work. Thanks for stopping by!!

  52. Jayme Daniel, on February 14th, 2009 at 3:38 am Said:

    Hey Selma: This is the orginial Bone Dust Cowgirl from Oklahoma, USA. Last year, you blogged the adventures of timtim on blogger, wanting a Bone Dust Cowgirl t-shirt. Go to our website and see if you still want one, We will send you one for free. We would love to have someone from Australia wearing one of our shirts!!! Thank – you for your time. Jayme of Bone Dust Cowgirl.

  53. Selma, on February 15th, 2009 at 1:44 pm Said:

    JAYME:
    I would love one of those T-shirts. Send me one and I’ll do a post about it. Will visit your site shortly….

  54. deepsm25, on April 6th, 2009 at 11:57 pm Said:

    A really nice blog along with an About me page. Keep Blogging cheers!!!

  55. Ivor W. Hartmann, on May 12th, 2009 at 3:22 am Said:

    Hi Selma, saw your comment at Lauri’s site and thought… You must (or will if you don’t know him), like Bill Hicks, as he said in his Advertising/Marketing rant “…Go ahead Kill yourself, seriously.” :) .

  56. Selma, on May 12th, 2009 at 4:07 pm Said:

    IVOR:
    He is awesome. He described himself as ‘like Chomsky with dick jokes.’ My kind of guy. I appreciate you stopping by!

  57. lissa, on June 9th, 2009 at 3:02 am Said:

    I’ve been here many times and never read this, strange, anyway, that’s a good bio, if I would to write my bio, it wouldn’t sound as good as yours

  58. Selma, on June 9th, 2009 at 2:33 pm Said:

    Hi LISSA,
    Your bio would be excellent. Look at all the skills you have – photographer, designer, poet. You are multi-talented!

  59. Huso Jsarevic- Bosnia, Tuzla, on July 8th, 2009 at 7:34 pm Said:

    Hello Selma, I red your blog and it is very good. Many regards from Bosnia.

  60. Selma, on July 12th, 2009 at 10:56 pm Said:

    HUSO – So nice of you to visit. I think you are my first reader from Bosnia. G’Day!!

  61. Timoteo, on August 16th, 2009 at 1:30 am Said:

    I saw Paris Hilton on TV a couple of nights ago, and she didn’t mention ANYTHING about that rehabilitation center! LOL Like your blog, Selma, and will be visiting regularly.

  62. Selma, on August 16th, 2009 at 9:47 am Said:

    TIMOTEO:
    It shows you how quickly news items become obsolete. I wrote this ‘About Me’ page 2 years ago now and I don’t think Paris is in the news as much as she used to be. Even in the celebrity world there is always someone nipping at your heels, waiting to get more coverage than you do. It is really good to have you here!

  63. Nick, on October 23rd, 2009 at 8:00 am Said:

    Hi,
     
    I was curious what it would take to get a text link on your blog saying something like “Tungsten Wedding Bands” or “Tungsten Wedding Rings” with a hyperlink to our site (www.tungstenringsonline.com).  We are a relatively new company and we are currently trying to improve our page ranking on Google.  We operate on a small budget, and we would be more than willing to give you a tungsten ring from our site in exchange for a link.  Let me know if this would be something that you would be interested in.  Thanks for any help you can give us.
     
    Thank You
    Nick
    Tungsten Rings Online

  64. Selma, on October 24th, 2009 at 5:46 pm Said:

    Hi Nick,
    I’m not allowed to advertise on this site as it is not self-hosted. Thanks, anyway. Best of luck with your wedding rings.

  65. hayriye, on October 30th, 2009 at 7:58 pm Said:

    merhaba selma,

    blogunuzu okumadım dolaylı yollardan sizin bloga ulaştım. Afrika-Amerika-Siz…. Profilinize baktım sadece isminizden dolayı türkçe yazdım. Buraya renk katmak istedim.

    İyi günler

    Hayriye
    <:))

  66. Selma, on October 31st, 2009 at 11:55 am Said:

    Hi HAYRIYE,
    Am I right in thinking you are Turkish? I’ll pop your comment into Google Translator. Thanks so much for stopping by!

  67. Gabrielle Bryden, on November 2nd, 2009 at 11:53 am Said:

    Thought I’d have a squiz at your blog as you were so nice as to stop by mine. Most impressive! You sound a bit like my doppelganger but living in a different type of place – same age category, and I worry about many similar things. I like what you said about ‘Sometimes the urban environment highlights the good and bad in our society in one succinct snapshot’. This concept has always intrigued me and I have written poetry about it. Life is a dilemma.

  68. Selma, on November 4th, 2009 at 12:01 am Said:

    Hi GABRIELLE,
    So glad you stopped by. We do sound like kindred spirits. It is comforting to know. Life certainly is a dilemma!

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