Some light

Ullswater from Martindale.

There wasn’t much light and it was raining, but it was good to be out. Surprising number of other people out too, including a family of young children, all geared up for the wet and windy weather and running up Hallin Fell. Gordon went up too, but he didn’t run.

So we will see the New Year in tonight, probably in the company of Phil and Aly broadcasting from Edinburgh. We are cooking a nice meal and will open the champagne, but will think sadly of all the New Year’s Eves we have spent with the same dear friends – no more.

And if anyone wants to be able to think more positively, than is becoming the norm, about prospects for the world in 2018, the Observer Editorial is worth reading. How the world could change for the better, given the will to do so. How it is possible to make the world a safer and happier place. The focus on respect is seen as crucial to any change – respect for other people’s religions and beliefs, culture and language; respect for opposing points of view. Could we wish for mutual tolerance in our country and in the world.

Defeatism besieged us in 2017. But it is a false, disempowering emotion. Things can be different. Despite appearances, change is possible.

And where to start? With gratitude. Gratitude for what we already have.

Wishing all Blippers, wherever they are, a happy and healthy New Year.