Nov 22 2008
Hope
I know it’s not anywhere near the end of the year, even though the Christmas decorations have been up for about a month, or so it seems.
But I can’t help but take a look back at the year gone by and think, Wow.
It’s been a pretty momentous 12 months by all accounts, for both Singapore and the world.
This little country of ours has had a few firsts.
Formula 1, the Flyer, major sporting events…we’ve made headlines around the world.
Then the economic crisis hit, and we watched as some of the most incredible and unbelievable events unfolded in the financial world that may not ever be seen again, or at least in our lifetime.
The measures that have been undertaken by world governments are likely to go some way to mitigating the impact on our lives and Singapore leaders have drawn up our battle plan for dealing with the crisis.
Next year and possibly the year after look set to be difficult ones for everyone but what’s life without a few challenges I always say.
And there is reason to be hopeful.
When I look at the events that unfolded during the US presidential elections, I am filled with hope.
To see a leader like Obama inspire a people and change mindsets that have lasted for hundreds of years and to think of the potential he has to change even more things around the world, how can one not be filled with hope for the future?
People can change, and change we must, if we are to face the years ahead and the challenges they hold.
But as 2008 draws to a close, and we prepare ourselves for an economy in recession, a climate in jeopardy and other troubles, I think we’re in pretty good shape.
We’ve still got more than a month to go, and the silly Christmas season to come. But I’m already looking forward to 2009!
