My blogs have mostly focused on gardening topics as this
subject now plays a major part in my life. It can be quite a solitary
occupation, spending many hours quietly working away by one’s self, with plenty
of time to think and ponder. Sometimes, I’ve even caught myself telling my
brain to shut up and give me some peace.
Recently, I’ve read or heard various news stories that are
very sad, that seem to highlight how low humanity has fallen and continues to
fall, and the things some people put value in. Occasionally, I read or hear
about more positive things that prove that human kind can actually rise above
and conquer the darker side of life.
In no particular order and from no particular judgemental
viewpoint I thought I’d pull a few observations together; to bring examples of
the negatives and the positives that have had a personal impact:
The recent very sad loss of the pretty and innocent young
girl in mid Wales
The debate over whether 24 or 20 or 12 weeks is appropriate
for abortion; when the whole subject of the killing of unborn children seems
now to be an intellectual debate, rather than valuing life in all its forms.
Bizarrely, how someone will pay £1000 for a used pair of
‘James Bond’ swimming trunks, when the money could be better used.
Many people seek good government (ie. Leaders who don’t lie,
are hard working, not self seeking, mature, are self-controlled); but who’s
personal government is lacking (ie. not always truthful or honest, take the
easy route to gain, are selfish, immature, and prone to outbursts particularly
alcohol or drug induced/related).
A girl has her stomach surgically removed after drinking
cocktails with liquid nitrogen ingredient.
A man dies after eating cockroaches and worms (in a
contest).
Recent news items: with people revealing much about other
people’s character, calling into question their achievements or their
behaviour, or even bringing in the police. Why don’t we speak up about such
issues when they are happening, not wait years after?
I find myself in a difficult position: Having followed
competitive cycling for many years and encouraged my son in the sport, I
once said to him that if Lance Armstrong was ever found to have won the Tour de
France on the back of doping/drugs I’d give up watching competitive cycling.
Such was the awe and respect with which I held Lance’s achievements.
Disappointed doesn’t even come close…
A very moving, though positive experience:
I watched a fabulous BBC2 programme called “Toughest place
to be a ferryman” {link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01mfhj5}
Amazing that with £500 raised by Colin Window, he was able to completely
transform the life of a Bangladesh ferryman (70 year old Muhammed Loteef) –
purchased 2 cows enabling Muhammed to return with his family to his home
village leaving the squalor of Dhaka behind).
I must keep looking for positives!!
