2006

A tsunami, a hurricane, an earthquake, a war. Lives snuffed out within minutes. Losses much more. And, don't forget the bombings and the bird-flu. That, too, was 2005.

As Bob Geldof reminded us during Live 8: many children will go hungry to bed tonight.

If this is reality, what's in store for us in 2006?

Despite these pictures of gloom, there is one difference between the New Year and the previous. That difference is our confidence - an undeniable, unshakable confidence in ourselves which has made us stronger, fitter, smarter in the past 365 days.

We have survived to tell the tale. And, we shall pursue our lives in 2006 with the same confidence and courage and hope and optimism.

Cheers.