Merry Christmas

A short message to all my wonderful subscribers as we farewell 2024 and begin our Christmas, Hanukkah, and summer celebrations.

Merry Christmas everyone!

A short message from me to round out the year and to say thank you for your support, insights, and encouragement this year.

Writing this Substack has been thoroughly enjoyable even when tackling complex or controversial issues. The comments, emails, and feedback have always been welcome including those stopping me in airports or on the streets to share a thought or two. Each week, this Substack is read by thousands around New Zealand and around the world – including Zimbabwe and Morocco!!

To all of you who subscribe, thank you. To those who have generously pledged, my thanks as well. I am heartened that no one has asked for a refund … yet!

2024 has been a year of significant change for me and Rachel as my father, and her mother, both passed away. While my mother remains with us, it has felt like a generational shift and all that comes with that. But it would be remiss not to add, that it has also been an exciting year with all sorts of new opportunities and happenings. As we are grateful for our parents, we are also grateful for all that this year has brought.

While Christmas time, can I also acknowledge my Jewish friends and wish you ‘Chag Hanukkah semeach’ (Happy Hannukah). I was reflecting on the story of the eight oil lamps and thought that in a world filled with much darkness, that eight little lights do not effect much change. However, when many good people combine their lights and talents, great things can happen. This is the great gift of family, friends, and community.

To you all, thank you for all your support this year.

May you have a blessed, happy, safe, and enjoyable Christmas and a very Happy New Year.

See you in 2025!

Simon (& Rachel)

Our most recent photo together; at a charity - called Breakfast Club - that we have supported over the years. Think 250 families, 1000 children and a day where each family gets a large Christmas hamper, gifts, books, home supplies - along with a sausage sizzle, ice creams, donuts … and just a day of fun for the families.