Looking back on the tragedies which have occurred this year

THIS is sadly fast becoming a year of tragedies.

Each has tested our very humanity and though very different in their causes and consequences, the question-marks of why they occurred has huge ramifications for the future of our society.

Yet from the depths of despair we have also witnessed the best of humankind.

Individual acts of bravery and collective actions whereby communities have pulled together to provide food, shelter and support have lifted spirits despite the hurt that initially was evident.

We must also rethink our approach to public services whether they’re the police, fire service or the NHS. The cuts have had an impact and we can no longer expect more for less if we are to continue to get the superb reaction we have witnessed of late.

What this year has taught me is that we not only live in frenetic times whereby we have to react quickly to whatever occurs next, trying to show both leadership and compassion, but that we must re-evaluate how we live our lives. John Ruskin, the 18th century polymath, taught us the differences between real and false wealth, whereby the former was not just about how we produce and value items but how we appreciate the work that has gone into creating them and in so doing how we value each other.

Given that what has marred the last 20 or so years in the Western World has been an intolerable growth in inequality and a decline in social justice there is still surely time for us to review what Ruskin’s analysis of society taught us as his principles are still extant today.

On a happier note, can I thank the many, many people who have offered congratulations and good wishes to me. I’ve tried to reply to as many as possible but if I’ve missed anyone out can I apologise. I hope that I can live up to your expectations.