Vasant: Be more optimistic

“A New Year begins and with it comes new hopes and aspirations - a faint desire that fosters in every human heart __ for happiness, prosperity and goodness.” Saying many view 2016 as an “annus horriblis (horrid year)” of bloodshed, a tottering economy and failing institutions, with citizens called on to make sacrifices in every area of life, while powerless over the hazards of brinkmanship posed by our leaders.

“It is time that we look to the future with optimism and renew our faith, both in ourselves and our country,” Bharath urged.

“We must be more responsible for our own actions and hold our leaders accountable for theirs. We must make this a society that works for all and not just a few. We must break from the old orthodoxies of race, religion and tribalism, if we are to eliminate corruption, nepotism and incompetence.” But Bharath said that above all, we must embrace the four freedoms urged by United States President Franklin D Roosevelt in 1941: Freedoms of Speech, Worship, Want and Fear. He said 2017 is new.

“It is an unopened present, a new opportunity, an excitement that brings with it the anticipation of a better future,” Bharath said.

“I salute the people of Trinidad and Tobago for their stoic resilience and patriotic spirit, and take this opportunity to wish you and your families a happy, healthy and prosperous 2017.

I leave you with the words of (British poet) TS Elliot, ‘For last years words belong to last years language, and next years words await another’s voice.