Manoel Island from St. Michael's Counterguard

A ray of hope

Amidst all the articles reporting about the tension that ensued in Greece and in the Maltese Parliament, one could find an article that exuded hope and courage. This is the story of Noel Aquilina who even though is disabled found hope in sports and will be covering 300 km from Messina to Pozzallo in a handcycle to collect money for Inspire. He will be accompanied by his coach, his daughter and manager. It is always nice to see that your work boss appreciates the efforts done to help those that are less fortunate than us. Following are the links to the article and to Inspire (formerly known as Razzett tal-Ħbiberija). May there be more of these initiatives and most of all may they be given more prominence. Malta and its people offer more than partisan pique when it comes to politics, religious feasts and football.

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100507/local/it-s-all-a-matter-of-will-power-disabled-accounting-clerk-says

http://www.simplygiving.org.mt/induce3005?fndid=4507A362E5EB25591625&l=1

Following is the link to the general website of Inspire:

http://www.simplygiving.org.mt/home?l=1

A quiet alley in Erice

Valletta by night

Segesta, Sicily

Appreciation

Nowadays we take many things for granted and it is always nice when a person undertakes a nice gesture or acknowledges such an action.

Yesterday a traffic policeman was controlling the traffic in the driving rain and wind, ensuring that the traffic proceeded smoothly without any accidents. One might say that it is his job to do so and some might also add that his actions could have caused more traffic but from what I could see this was not case and not too many would be well pleased to get drenched in the course of their work. Another episode that springs to mind only just happened this morning when a car stalled in the middle of regional road and from all the cars that passed by, it was a taxi from a private company that promptly stopped, quickly got out a rope so as to tow and help out the unfortunate driver.

Bottom line is that even small gestures of help or words such as 'thank you' and 'sorry' with a smile are enough to brighten up ones day!

Reflections

Following is a link of shocking photographs taken by Pulitzer winner Patrick Farrell of a hurricane that hit Haiti before this year's earthquake.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/gallery/2009/apr/22/patrick-farrell-pulitzer

Next up is a link that hit Haiti in January which crippled even more this poor country.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/gallery/2010/jan/21/haiti-earthquake-aerial-pictures?picture=358349373

Last but not least is a link of photographs showing the grim aftermath of the 8.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Chile at the end of February.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/gallery/2010/feb/28/chile-natural-disasters?picture=359886663

When seeing the devastating effects of these natural events one can only stop for a few moments and start reflecting and appreciating all the good that we have. At times we should count our lucky stars and complain less whilst being proactive in trying to solve problems that may hit us and trying to alleviate those of others.