Thought for the week

IN the UK and much of the rest of the world we have been faced with the changes and challenges brought about by the likes of covid, climate change, wars, energy supplies and the cost of living generally.

Recently, the publishers of Collins’ Dictionary have announced their word of the year 2022 to be ‘permacrisis,’ defined as ‘an extended period of instability and insecurity.’

However, in the midst of all the crises, there have been, and continue to be, shining examples of dedicated service by the emergency services, the caring professions and many others as well as a multitude of unpaid community volunteers. Recently, the Llandudno Fireworks display provided a brilliant social event to uplift the spirits of all who gathered on the promenade. The weather was good and the atmosphere great. Now the Advent calendars are about to be opened and preparations are underway to celebrate Christmas and its message of hope and peace for the world.

Not surprisingly, most of us have felt the pressures of everyday life and perhaps wonder what we can do to make a positive difference where we are. I am reminded of part of the prayer attributed to St. Francis of Assisi : “Lord make me an instrument of your peace; where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy.”

Perhaps we can all do our bit by giving hope and encouragement to those around us. Simply doing little things can make a huge difference when we are willing to do what we can, where we are with what we’ve got.