2008 was a strange year and will definitely be remembered for its drama, troubles and strengths. In spite of it all, I have learned many lessons. This year of sorts has taught me about the difference between needs and wants and about connection between the economy and the environment. Therefore now, it is so important for me to take into account of what really matters...to appreciate what I already have, to count my blessings, to be grateful for the simple things in life and to be mindful of people around me - the less fortunate, the homeless and especially children living in anguish and fear.
Today, especially today as we greet the dawn of a brand new year I wish to share this meaningful poem (posted by my friend Julie) here :
Another Day Has Dawned by Kit Callum
Amidst our chaos and confusion
Amidst our anguish and despair
Amidst our ever-ending questions and blame
…Lies a world of lessons.
Through our tears and astonishment
Through our hopelessness and desperations
Through our anxiety and grief
…Lies a world of shame.
For it is our world that is responsible
It is our world that allowed this sadness
It is our world that has lost its youth
…And it is our world that needs to change.
It is a warning for those who would isolate it
It is a warning for those who would bury it
It is a warning for those who think it will not touch them
…It is we, who need to address it.
For this is the birth of our own generation
This is the birth of our own problems
This is the birth of our own mistakes
…It is we, who needed to watch over them.
A new generation who have hopes and dreams
A new generation who have life and laughter
A new generation who deserve a chance at peace
…It is we who need to make them secure.
It is time to stop talking in circles
It is time to stop blaming and pointing
It is time to stop questioning and guessing
…It is time to accept the burden and act.
We are not blameless
We are not above reproach
We are not perfect role models
…For we are the generation they emulate.
Look beyond your own circle of life
Look beyond your picket fences and chained doors
Look beyond your own backyard
…And admit your frailties and failures.
Did you not once look the other way?
Did you not once stay quiet when you should have spoken?
Did you not once say I can not change it?
…Do you know that we can make a difference?
One small voice can begin to move mountains
One caring gesture can begin to enlighten others
One shoulder to lean on can ease another’s pain
…Did you know that you are that one?
Listen to those who are in jeopardy
Listen to that small voice whispering that they are in trouble
Listen to that child with the wayward furtive glance
…And be prepared to take part in their future.
For if you do not listen and talk
If you do not participate and take responsibility
If you do not guide and offer them your heart and wisdom
…It is we, who will join in their misery.
It reaches beyond your own immediate children
It reaches beyond their friends and peers
It reaches beyond their nieces and nephews
…For it is every child you come in contact with.
Positive action begins in our own backyard
Positive action flows through your own neighbourhood
Positive action can encompass your own small town and city
…And through this, we are all connected.
Be a mentor when others fail to counsel
Be a counsellor when others fail to listen
Be a listener when others fail to notice
…Be a positive experience with every child you meet.
For yesterday, someone looked the other way
Yesterday, someone pretended they did not see
Yesterday, someone passed by without offering help
…But today, it is not too late.
Today, you can make a difference in someone’s life
Today, you can offer your love and guidance
Today, you can choose to be a positive influence for another
…And then maybe, just maybe, our world will change you.
May we all have a most fruitful year ahead!
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