This New Year I'm Thankful For...

The colours of the sunrise I can see changing as the sun rises.

That I live in a democracy that gives me a voice, and provides welfare, health services, education, guidance, security, transport and regulates water, power and communication services. It’s not perfect but it continues to evolve without us taking to the streets in violent protest. And works to reduce the harms of Big Tech whose media platforms share so much unhealthy, hate filled  and incorrect content with their subscribers.
 
The thousands of public servants who are the frontline service providers of Government. Their ability to provide the services they used to has reduced over time and they can be treated badly by those who are angry and feel let down.

The thousands of workers in the Charity sector, paid and unpaid, who also provide services to us. And face similar abuse at times.  Especially those who fill in the gaps between different services and provide holistic service.

The freedom to practice my faith without fear.

The steps being taken to reduce violence against women and girls. I hope that the Christian Churches will, through their schools and worship, take a positive lead in this and teach their children to respect themselves, developing healthy emotional, spiritual and physical beliefs.  And to respect others and treat them kindly in friendships and partnerships that are based on sharing an equality of power that does not exploit. Thus empowering adults to form long lasting relationships that provide any children they have with a secure childhood and the ongoing nurture of both parents and wider families well into their adulthood.

That our legal systems and police are independent and will challenge politicians and others who overstep legal boundaries.

That since pre historic times this land has been settled by travellers from across the seas that surround us. They have given us place names, a language and many cultural traditions, including that of tolerance,  as well as different religions. And that most of us still welcome those who come here to work, study or find refuge.

For family, friends and the church community.