Will Rogers 28  

It is now March and thus Women's History Month, plus International Women's Day on March 8th. Much has been said & written about the status of women around the world but I have yet to come across any video that is better than Hilary Clinton's 20 minute address to a conference in Beijing, China, in 1995. Her words very much hits the nail squarely on the head, though sadly, although there have been some improvements in some countries, for much of the world little has improved since 1995. Indeed some countries have gone backwards. The struggle for women's rights must continue for a long time to come.

I only recently came across this great song by Frances Key 'Sing a song for women'. Maybe not the most stirring and not well known but very touching and true and the words, so apt. I very much like it and hope that you do too.

New Years Eve, a time to look back, to look forwards. For looking back, maybe this wonderfully inspiring speech by Robert Kennedy can remind us of paths we have followed in the past but now all to often turn away from to other darker paths - he reminds us what we are fighting for, not just what we are fighting against. We need to keep giving forth our 'tiny ripples of hope'.

As for looking forwards, how about John Lennon's truly wonderful 1971 song, Imagine, a song for all time, for all people. This version from the 2012 Olympics (you need to click on the link to watch in YouTube). It might take another 42 years, 420, even 4,200 years to achieve our goals but however long it takes this song is an affirmation of what we can be, what we need to strive for. It gives us hope - and without hope, humankind is nothing. Have a hopeful and an exceedingly HAPPY NEW YEAR.

Hi Will, Wishing You & Yours A Lovely Xmas Love CarolanneP Xx