Happy New Year 2016

2015 was a year in which so many lost their lives unnecessarily - whether through war, sickness, terror or displacement.  We were confronted with the realisation that all of us, whether refugee, ebola victim or ordinary Parisien, simply want to go about our lives in safety and in good health.

Yet we also saw endless expressions of our common humanity - volunteers in countries affected by ebola, people welcoming and caring for refugees, and football fans standing together in solidarity.  Expressions of what it is that makes us truly human.

Most of us spend much of our time working in commercial organisations, which exist, at the end of the day, to make money.  So it doesn't take long in a fast-paced, business world, for the focus to drift from what is fundamental in life.

So as 2016 dawns, my offer is to take time, perhaps a little more time than you might usually do, to think about what is really important to you for this year, and to consider how you will keep that focus, and truly express your humanity, no matter what business throws at you.

As usual, I have made a donation this year rather than sending Christmas cards.  I had cause last year to reflect on the importance of good health as the foundation for everything else in life, and on the generosity of those who make it their work to help others.  For this reason my chosen charity this year is The Haven, who support individuals and families affected by breast cancer.  You can read more about their work here:  http://www.thehaven.org.uk/

Wishing you a safe and healthy 2016.