Reflections on the past year

It seems to me that ever since the first blog took off a decade ago this medium has been used to push every point of view, religion, political agenda, personal problems, rant, rave, conspiracy theory and the like.

Blogs have also been used to share ideas, market the writer's skills and abilities and in general sell something to someone, somewhere.

Some have been dull, some funny, some serious - some that shouldn't be taken seriously ;-0 and some that should be just laughed off your PC screen.

I have tried to get a point of view across based on some observation, with the express purpose of eliciting your own thoughts on the subject.

This year, like most if not all others, has been one of highs and lows. For myself, I will always remember the thrill of watching the historical inauguration of President Obama, live and in real time; the speech he made, the people who attended, the passing of power in such a peaceful, orderly fashion. It was the highlight of the just commenced new year.

During the year there were many tragedies - some global, some local, some personal - but they touch us all as civilised human beings and we should be ever mindful of those who are affected and what we can do to assist.

For myself, I've had a blinder of a year and want to thank all those wonderful people I have met during my travels with Australia and the USA - the other speakers with whom I shared a platform, the conference organisers who are so professional and helpful, the attendees who were so attentive, friendly and happy to give feedback (and still keep in touch!), the academics and staff at the university where I am a visiting Fellow for their generosity and assistance, the staff and management of organisations I am associated with and finally you, dear reader and all those who visit my website.

The head of the fraternal organisation to which I belong has as the theme of his three year term to "Be Happy and Communicate Happiness"

Sounds like good advice me! Happy New Year and may 2010 bring you peace, happiness and success.

Harry