First Footing

And so we reach another new year. I have to confess to feeling considerable trepidation at the prospect of what the world has in store in the coming months and years. The next incumbent of the White House (I can’t bear to write his name…) fills me with real fear about what’s to come for my US Blip friends and their compatriots. And, where the POTUS leads, others will follow, and take encouragement. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness will all be put at considerably greater risk, that’s for sure.

And the global impact will also doubtless be huge… in the Middle East, Ukraine and elsewhere. Not to mention the climate crisis and the movement of displaced people.

At home, we still have seemingly endless issues to address, and the parlous state of the NHS, housing, education, social care, support for people with additional needs, and transport - to take a random selection - gives me cause for concern. Not to mention the ongoing rise of populist lunacy.

However, on a personal level, there’s much to be happy and hopeful about. 2024 was a year of adapting to changes in my own life and the lives of loved ones. It’s been a very busy and often very stressful 12 months - but I’m starting the new year on a happy and healthy note. I have love, friendship and support in my life, a lovely home, a job, and a new-ish but very solid relationship. I count my blessings, and I wish you all love, joy, comfort, excitement, strength and health in 2025!

Here’s Jeff Buckley with ‘New Year’s Prayer’ https://youtu.be/e4ohxpv5CQs?si=A14FO2MsgHeXlLUY (“Feel no shame for what you are.”)