2014 will understandably be the year which heralds a number of commemorations of the Great War. I don't presume to cast judgment on the rights and wrongs of whether the anniversary is a cause for commemoration or quiet reflection. Everyone will have their own way of approaching this time. It was a brutal conflict with millions of losers and no winners of whom I'm aware. Enough said.
In 1914, political ideology gave rise to the war to end all wars. So much for promises. 2014 looks likely to bring more of the same. On September 18th, the Scots will decide on their future within the Union. Since 1707, all has been well but all that could change with a neatly choreographed period of political persuasion (of which Alex Salmond is well capable).
In 2013, the Turks fought for greater European integration while their Government fought for traditional Eastern values. The Ukranians fought for greater European ties while their Government returned cap in hand to Moscow for political favour. All the while, UKIP gained impetus in the UK with their promise to gat us out of Europe. The grass is seldom greener..
In 2013, Syria just fought. Human life became a painfully cheap commodity and the world looked on wondering what to do. As the year draws to it's close, a story emerges to give hope for the year to come. Stranded Russian sailors are waiting to be rescued from the polar ice cap by Chinese and Australian sailors. In the end, we are all human beings who care for one another. It is that simple.
2014 will mark the bicentenial of the first cricket match to take place at Lord's. Sport is a great leveller and cricket has continued to forge friendships between men of different faith and culture. It would be good to imagine that an end could be sought to the conflict in Syria as millions contemplate the anniversary of an even more senseless war. There is always hope. The definition of insanity is to keep doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. Makes you think doesn't it?
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