Regular readers may have noticed the lack of posts to this blog in recent weeks. Thanks to some overseas and interstate travel, I have overlooked my commitment to weekly updates. Plus, a dearth of inspiration has contributed to partial writer’s block.

Rather than trying to force the issue, I’ve decided to use this lull as a natural prompt to take an early end-of-year break from blogging. Especially as we have the combined southern hemisphere effect of a headlong rush into the Holiday Season, and an extended summer hiatus.

Looking back over 2024, it has felt as if the popular desire for political change has quickly turned into a case of “be careful of what you wish for”. Less than 6 months after securing an overwhelming win in the UK general election, the British Labour government is already wearing out its welcome, given the level of public frustration and administrative set-backs concerning key policies and poor executive governance. And with Republicans about to assume the reins in Washington, the US electorate must be bracing itself for the change (or déjà vu) about to be unleashed in the Whitehouse with Donald Trump’s return to office. Here in Australia, the current Labor government is facing the prospect of being a one-term administration, as it has had little positive impact on the cost of living crisis, and has resorted to pushing through ill-drafted and ill-considered legislation in the final Parliamentary session of the year (and possibly the last of this government’s term).

On a personal note, there have been some notable highs, offset with sad losses and other family setbacks – the latter mainly thanks to the ageing process which, despite its inevitability, can still be cruel and arbitrary. So I’m thankful that apart from the odd aches and twinges, I enjoy a reasonable level of health and fitness.

The material and spiritual elements that also sustain me (music, wine, good food, art, cinema, travel, books…) continue to provide sustenance, although in some cases (especially in film and art) I have noticed a declining return on the time invested in them. And of course, I’m grateful to have a group of friends with whom to share many of these pleasures. As with most areas of my life, when it comes to friendships, I prefer quality over quantity (“less is more”). Social media has its uses, but without connecting IRL, on-line friendships can easily come and go with the click of a button – but true friends are lifelong, and the threads can be maintained over the years, and even at a distance, because of the foundational links that underpin them.

With that thought, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe, peaceful and festive Saturnalia and beyond into 2025. See you next year!