On 18th December, my wife and I would have been celebrating our 53rd wedding anniversary. On Boxing Day 5 years ago, she had her first stroke. She died on 8th January. For me this is a sad time of year.

Today my house will be filled with the sound of children laughing (I hope!) and I shall have most of my family with me. For the next few days, we shall have endless fun, play games, eat lots of good food, discuss the world, go to the park and the playground, and enjoy every moment. For me this is a happy time of year.

This forum is nothing if not ambivalent! As that great philosopher Frank Sinatra tells us, “That’s life.” Nevertheless, I’m sure all of us will agree that regardless of dark and light, and of beliefs, disbeliefs and non-beliefs, the Christmas spirit of peace and love, giving, receiving and sharing, should be the basis of all our days. So that’s my Christmas wish for everyone who reads these words, with the addition of good health – so go easy on the pudding and the wine.

I shall now fall silent for a few days until the house is empty again.