The lessons have been stark, which is why we have not been able to move on from the recession. #1. It is futile and Impossible to rely on any one/system/corporation/political party/ profession/ police. Never assume. #2. The people who write the copy/mission statements/advertisements have nothing to do with the decision makers who run the countries/businesses/make the products. Don't be taken in. #3.Despite thinking we are independent decision makers, we are constantly being m

The lessons have been stark, which is why we have not been able to move on from the recession. #1. It is futile and impossible to rely on anyone/system/corporation/political party/ profession/ police. Never assume. There is no moral authority. #2. The people who write the copy/mission statements/advertisements have nothing to do with the decision makers who run the countries/businesses/make the products. #3.Despite thinking we are independent decision makers, we are constantl

If someone told me that the world is actually turning faster, which makes the clocks turn faster and the year pass faster, I would not be surprised because by my reckoning we should only be in October now. Life has flown by. When I consider all the changes that have occurred in my lifetime, it is mind boggling. I started to write using a slate and chalk. Very prehistoric. We had little dusters, were thrilled to use blue and pink chalk and drew flowers and animals beside our s

Some complain that Christmas has become too commercial, Others that we import a load of tat that is in landfill within 12 months-all those festive decorations, wrapping and jumpers made of 100% polyester. These will last for 1000 years. Succeeding generations will wonder what we found so great about the many incarnations of plastic. But we can make a positive difference. Of course, we could be making a difference all throughout the year, but Christmas concentrates the mind. W

Retirement is the perfect opportunity to live the life of your dreams. If you have always wanted to be an astronaut or Batman, it might be a bit of a challenge, but there are possibilities of downloading a star at night app or joining Neighbourhood watch. All the research coming through from the USA, China and Japan is that lifestyle choices rather than medical intervention can provide a healthier life. We could be a little cynical and say: they would say that, wouldn't they?