From Vancouver Island, Canada and from the Kingdom of Fife, in eastern Scotland, we wish you peace, all possible joy, and every reason for hope in the New Year to come.
This blog has always been, just for fun. It reflects a passion for sea kayaking and hill-walking, and a few other odds and ends that come to mind, all in the pursuit of getting to know the planet just a little bit better. It's writers are two outdoor enthusiasts, a parish minister and a social worker, who believe in the power of love, and in the inherent goodness of all people. We know that one day, the world will find a way to live in peace. We will never give up on that hope and that dream.
Although this is the Season of Christmas for us and for many, Joan and I rejoice together in the marvellous tapestry of hopes and dreams that are shared by all religious traditions, and by those of no particular tradition at all. We human beings have been separated for too long by our boundaries, our ideologies, our dogmas, and our need to be right.
Christmas is surely a time for light and love to illuminate what really matters in life: our shared search for value and meaning, and our connection with one another - a connection and sense of shared community that seeks the best for all.
Yesterday, we stood on the summit of East Lomond, an extinct volcano, not far from home, here in Fife.
With the perspective of a little elevation, we looked out once again upon a fragile, island planet, and the tiny communities set amongst the hills and the fields. The earth, the sea, the air...and all life, are so interconnected and worthy of our deepest respect.
Humankind continues to yearn for a world that reflects kindness, compassion, and respect for all people everywhere. We must do all that we can to take care of one another and this magnificent "blue marble" we call home. We must celebrate diversity, and differences, and ensure that all who struggle, for whatever reason, are supported and given every opportunity to experience the fullness and richness that life can offer.
It is possible.
With our warmest wishes to one and all,
Duncan and Joan.
As ever, beautifully put Duncan - a very happy happy Christmas to you, Joan and Jeff
ReplyDeleteLinda & Ian
Thank you, Linda and Ian, and the very best Christmas wishes to you and your family. Duncan and Joan.
DeleteAll you hope and dream for is possible. Have a very Merry Christmas in the UK and try and stay warm!
ReplyDeleteLove from us here on the warm, sunny island in BC :)
L
As always, thank you for your good thoughts, L. The warmth of your friendship brings "sunshine" on the occasional day that the sun doesn't shine here. ;) Happy Christmas to you and your family from us both. D.
DeleteGreat thoughts put in nice words to bring along during the coming year(-s)!
ReplyDeleteBest wishes,
Leif
Many thanks for that, Leif. We wish you the very best in the coming year. Warmest wishes to you. Duncan and Joan.
DeleteI am a bit late but hope you had a Very Merry Christmas and wishing you both a healthy and prosperous New Year. Keep Warm.
ReplyDeleteJ.
Never too late, J, thank you so much for your good wishes. We wish you and Peter much health and happiness and lots of that AZ sunshine in the New Year to come. Warmest wishes, Duncan and Joan.
ReplyDelete