Tag Festive

Wellbeing

The Biggest Test of Our Resilience: A Socially Distanced Santa

I, for one, want to scream at what the media are saying. Yes, we have a very serious situation on health, mental health levels, economy and social cohesion levels, but it is shamefully wound up to such heights of anxiety, as it is their business to sell news. That is how they profit. Many people now no longer watch or read the news as too much negativity depletes our reservoirs of hope and self-belief. Yet, there are so many good stories missed about human courage, resilience, innovative new businesses and compassion as the bone of negative news seems more tasty than encouraging messages of human greatness. It is important that we look after ourselves to be strong for others. Just like the scenario of an inflight emergency, we need to put on our air mask first so that we can help others around us. Looking after our health and fitness, strengthen our immune systems are so important in weathering this marathon of mental endurance and loss of freedom.

Nothing compares with the magic of winter: festive shows, a visit to a grotto, the winter fair, are all expectations which, by tradition, were embraced by our families for generations. But this year, around your Christmas tree, everybody will expect…

Douglas Ballard
November 26, 2020

Culture

Festive Lights: Was Christmas cancelled?

Are the festival lights to be switched on this Christmas?

Christmas awakens the strongest and most heartfelt associations. The services of the Church about this season are extremely tender and inspiring. I do not know a grander effect of music on the moral feelings than to hear the full choir and the pealing organ performing a Christmas anthem in a cathedral, and filling every part of the vast pile with triumphant harmony.

Dr Marina Nani
November 16, 2020