A single moment 

etched in time,

shining brightly

like a star

in a midnight sky,

an eon, an instant,

a million years

pressed into one,

when all stands still

and life explodes.

into infinite dreams,

all is changed. 

forevermore

in the blink of an eye.

I hope everyone had a great and safe Christmas with family and loved ones wherever you are.  What are your hopes for the new year? It may be too early to think about the resolutions or visions but it’s never too late to choose good over evil, peace over chaos and life over death.  Whatever problem you are facing today, looking at the end of 2023, nothing is too hard to solve or get help for.  Reach out to someone if you are feeling sad, anxious or stressed.   Let us stay connected.  Put on a new song if you need a better beat in your house.

This festive season isn’t jolly for all of us.  Some are remembering their loved ones who passed on this day.  Yesterday reminded us that things could change in an instant.   Thunder and lighting, wet weather, flooding in low-lying areas, be careful out there.  Sad news at the beginning of the week, Boxing Day drowning and couldn’t be saved. 

Please be mindful of our young ones while we enjoy our time with family.  Little hands and feet are quick to run around without adults seeing or remembering.  Also, keep an eye out for older kids when you are at the beach.  Tides can change and even if we are strong swimmers, we cannot save two at a time when disasters hit.  If it’s rainy, stay away from the ocean and rivers.  Adults, alcohol, and swimming do not mix, if they do, it’s a recipe for disaster and tragedy. Perhaps it’s time to get back into the pool for those swimming lessons or refresher courses.

Cyclone season is upon us, prepare your emergency kit and a few things in case of emergency or power outages.   Remember spare batteries, medicine and COVID are still around.  We do not need another outbreak, influenza or lockdown.  Avoid the crowds if you can. Let us all walk into the new year with caution, a healthy body and a sound mind.  Share the opportunities and dreams with yourself, and believe them before you get others on board.  While we share the end of this year with family titles and great food, please look out for one another.  Enjoy the rest of the week Samoa.  

Enid Westerlund is a regular columnist for this newspaper. She is an aviation specialist, business consultant, author and loves teaching children to read on the weekend.