A balanced view

The news bulletins reveal human nature at its best as well as at its worst. In recent months we have learnt of the incredible bravery of volunteer firemen and other helpers at the scene of the bush fires. Such people have been ready to put their lives on the line with no prospect of personal reward. In what has sometimes been called the 'me generation' they stand out as shining exemples.

There is a growing awareness of problems caused by alcohol such as binge drinking by young people, road trauma and violence. The man in charge of a Scottish prison told me that 70% of his inmates were incarcerated for alcohol related offences, at great expense to taxpayers. I remember when many dismissed the suggestion that smoking was harmeful, but not now! It is time that more people also woke up to the dangers of alcohol. Few people start drinking with the thought that they will ever become addicted, but too many do. As a Salvationist I am pledged to and can celebrate an alcohol-free life and would not compromise my personal example in this resepct. I have met too many who have regretted starting to imbibe but not one who has regretted abstaining! There is no question of being judgemental of those who do not share my point of view - including some good friends. On the contrary, I am part of an organization that, more than most, seeks to help those with addictions.

Need and greed

The financial crisis is hitting people all over the world and its complexities may baffle many. But it is plain that unrestained greed has contrbuted to the problem with a knock-on effect affecting millions of decent,law-abiding folk. It might be said that there is enough in the world for everyone's need but not enough for everybody's greed. Hopefully some lessons have been learnt and there will be contols which will prevent any repeat of the widespread problems of the past year.

After the fire storm

It seems that the firestorms in Victoria may now be under control and victims have been humbled and grateful for amazing support from around the world but, what for observers may seem the beginning of the end is only the end of the beginning for those most affected. When the fires no longer attract headlines the work of rebuilding homes and lives will still go on. The Salvation Army has declared that it is 'in for the long haul' and hopefully other NGOs and government departments will also be committed for the long term. We should all continue to pray and pay for those who have suffered so grievously.