Category: Society

February 29

Ever wondered why February gets an extra day every four years? Well, it’s all about keeping our clocks and calendars in sync with the Earth’s orbit around the sun. You see, our orbit takes approximately 365.2422 days, but the Gregorian calendar, which we use, only has 365 days. So, to make up for this discrepancy, we add leap years.

The idea of adding an extra day to February goes back to Julius Caesar’s time. Augustus Caesar later added two days to August, which caused February to lose out on its length.

Leap years happen every year that’s divisible by four, except for years divisible by one hundred but not by four hundred. This fine-tuning ensures our calendar stays accurate. The Gregorian calendar, introduced in 1582, made further adjustments by skipping three days every four hundred years. Additionally, leap seconds are occasionally added to align Earth’s rotation with atomic time and prevent drift.

Interestingly, leap years are also linked to the tradition of women proposing to men. This tradition stems from a 5th Century Irish legend involving St. Bridget and St. Patrick, and it gained popularity in Scotland in the 19th Century.

If you’re born on February 29, you’re called a leapling! In non-leap years, leaplings celebrate their birthdays on February 28 or March 1.

Popular culture has embraced leap years too. Works like Gilbert & Sullivan’s “Pirates of Penzance” and the film “Leap Year” explore leap year themes. While there’s no specific leap year cuisine, dishes like frogs’ legs and recipes involving the number four are often associated with leap year traditions.

Anthony, Texas, proudly calls itself the Leap Year Capital of the World and hosts a four-day festival every leap year. Superstitions about leap years are reflected in proverbs from various cultures, and some believe leap years bring bad luck for marriages.

Fun fact: Rare Disease Day is observed on February 29.

In conclusion, leap years play a crucial role in keeping our calendars accurate, and they’re woven into various cultural traditions and beliefs. So, every four years, let’s celebrate that extra day in February!

Reject Blue Monday

Today is the third Monday in January, a day designated as Blue Monday, the most depressing day of the year in the northern hemisphere.

Unfortunately, this trivial label damages our understanding of mental health, just for the sake of a superficial piece of clickbait. Yes, my title is itself clickbait, but if this article helps you to understand actual depression better it will have achieved its purpose.

We all know that in a normal year January can be a difficult month for our mental health (for a variety of reasons) but recent years have been tough. So, even though the concept of Blue Monday appears to make sense, I feel we should reject it even more this year. The very real challenges we face this January make my premise even stronger this year, Blue Monday just isn’t real.

You’ll hear people say that it’s been worked out using a ‘scientific formula’. In fact, it first appeared as part of an advertising campaign for a holiday company, hardly the rigorous, evidence-based approach we might expect. Even the person whose name was on the original press release has since distanced himself from Blue Monday, admitting he was paid to help sell holidays. He now campaigns against Blue Monday.

Having said all that, the date continues to surface every January, and is increasingly linked to mental health and depression. In fact, it’s simply a day when we’re all supposed to feel a bit down, but even that is far-fetched if you give it some thought and view it through the lens of common sense.

A few years ago, the charity Mind attempted to dispel the myth that Blue Monday had anything to do with depression.

Depression is NOT something that happens one day and disappears the next, as if it has trivial ’causes’. Blue Monday is mumbo jumbo, pseudoscience that only serves to add to damaging preconceptions about depression and trivialises a serious illness that can be life-threatening. Depression has nothing to do with the third Monday in January.

The idea that depression is basically the same as feeling low is very pervasive within society, as if it’s ’caused’ by trivial things with the ‘cure’ a matter of ‘pulling yourself together’. Facile responses to depression, such as ‘cheer up’, merely reinforce the preconception it can easily be shaken off with determination and effort. This is not the case, depression is NOT the same as having a bad day.

Depression is way more than simply feeling a bit low, and this is what’s difficult for some people to grasp. It’s about guilt, feelings of worthlessness, lack of motivation, and a sense of emptiness, with simple tasks seemingly impossible to achieve. But there’s also the physical symptoms; headaches, aches and pains, lack of appetite, and sleep disturbances. On top of this can come insidious suicidal thoughts.

It’s an insult to think that the mental and physical complexity of depression can be encapsulated in a catchy named day. The negative things in everyday life that get us down are NOT the things that cause depression, it’s NOT something ‘catch’ from our circumstances. Yes, they can affect our mental health adversely, but they don’t cause depression. Depression can happen in good times.

The ‘why’ of depression is a complex and multi-faceted question. Please don’t trivialise it by falling for a gimmick, reject Blue Monday!

Finally, here’s a Blue Monday we mustn’t reject, enjoy! Click here.

Living in a Social Media Bubble

Oxford Dictionaries decided that the word post-truth (or is that two words?) should be Word of the Year for 2016. They defined it as an adjective ‘relating to or denoting circumstances in which objective facts are less influential in shaping public opinion than appeals to emotion and personal belief’. Two major news events of 2016 illustrated how untruths (or should I just say lies?) were an illustration of this; namely, the debate prior to the UK referendum vote to leave the European Union and the campaign that resulted in the election of Donald Trump in the United States of America.

Many people were surprised by these two events, and one explanation is the so-called social media bubble. This is a phenomenon which links us to like-minded friends and others, sharing and liking similar news stories, views, and opinions. The algorithms of Facebook (and the like) can decide our friends for us, as those with similar views. Yes, this goes on in the everyday world, but the effect is magnified by the very nature of the medium. It’s like living in an echo chamber.

Many were surprised by Brexit and Trump because they weren’t aware of many people who favoured them. They just weren’t in their circle of friends, or they possibly kept quiet. Add to this the problem of hoaxes, fake news and unreliable quotes, and things can get quite messy. What is truth in a post-truth world after all? Falsehoods are easily spread by people unwilling (or too busy) to make a simple check of their veracity. Google can be your friend, or possibly your false-friend, who knows anymore?

In the space of two days I heard both Brian Eno and Laurie Anderson speak about the feature on Amazon that shows what other people bought after you’ve made a purchase. Another example of the bubble effect? Wouldn’t it be better to have a reverse filter suggesting what they didn’t buy? We can so easily inhabit an echo chamber.

Shouldn’t we be reaching out those with different opinions to our own and seeking to understand?

Christian Remembrance

Remembrance Sunday is observed on the second Sunday in November in the UK and some Commonwealth nations. It’s a day to honour and remember the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives in times of war. It holds deep significance for Christians, interweaving both historical and spiritual elements in its observance.

At the heart of the Christian faith lies the principle of love, echoed in Jesus Christ’s teachings to “love your neighbour as yourself.” Remembrance Sunday aligns with this core belief, emphasising the sacrificial love shown by soldiers and civilians who laid down their lives for the well-being of others. Christians view this sacrifice as reflective of Christ’s own sacrificial love, embodied in his death on the cross.

For many Christian denominations, the act of remembrance itself is profoundly rooted in their faith. It’s a time to reflect on the virtues of courage, selflessness, and service exemplified by those who served in the armed forces. Christians recognise and honour the dedication and commitment of these individuals, echoing Christ’s message of service to others.

Church services on Remembrance Sunday often incorporate themes of peace, reconciliation, and the call for a world free from conflict. The prayers and hymns during these services focus on the hope for peace, drawing inspiration from biblical passages that speak of peace and the cessation of violence. It’s a moment to pray for global peace and for the families who continue to suffer due to the consequences of war.

The act of remembrance, marked by the two-minute silence at 11.00 am, stands as a solemn acknowledgment of the sacrifice made by so many. This silence is an act of collective honour and gratitude, echoing the Christian value of reverence, humility, and thankfulness.

Moreover, the red poppy, often worn during this time, symbolises both loss and hope. While it signifies the bloodshed and sacrifices of war, it also represents the hope for a peaceful future. In a Christian context, the red poppy can be likened to the redemptive nature of Christ’s sacrifice, offering hope and renewal even in the face of immense suffering.

The Christian perspective on Remembrance Sunday also incorporates a plea for learning from history. It encourages reflection on the tragic consequences of war and the importance of pursuing peace, justice, and reconciliation. This aligns with the Christian ideals of forgiveness and understanding, emphasising the need to work towards preventing conflict and promoting harmony in society. Some wear a white poppy for this reason.

Ultimately, for Christians, Remembrance Sunday is a time to pay homage to the fallen, to reflect on the virtues of sacrifice, courage, and service, and to recommit to the pursuit of peace in a world often marred by conflict. It’s a day that highlights the interconnectedness of remembrance, faith, and the aspiration for a future guided by love, harmony, and unity.

Staying whole in a fractured world

The world can be a confusing and unsettling place, especially with technology at our fingertips and 24/7 news. Making sense of it all can take its toll on our inner life. In this context, preserving our mental health is essential.

Here’s some strategies that work for me:

Limit your news consumption. Constant exposure to distressing news can lead to anxiety and stress. Set aside specific times to check the news and avoid it during the rest of the day. Consider turning off news notifications on your devices.

Choose reliable news sources. Verify the credibility of the news sources you follow and ask questions, such as, why is this person saying a certain thing, for example. This can reduce fear and uncertainty.

Focus on what you can control. It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of global crises. Concentrate on actions you can take in your own life, like supporting local charities, volunteering, or making environmentally conscious choices.

Establish a daily routine to bring stability and predictability. Regular sleep patterns, exercise, and work schedules can all help you maintain a sense of normality. Do what works for you.

Talk to people. Human connection is vital for mental wellbeing. Even when you can’t meet in person, stay connected with friends and family through phone calls, video chats, or online social groups. Sharing your feelings and experiences can be comforting. Smile at people and talk to strangers.

Develop the art of self-care. Dedicate time to activities that help you relax and unwind. Exercise, meditation, deep breathing, and hobbies can all reduce stress and improve your mood.

Seek help. If you find yourself struggling to cope with the constant stream of negative news, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. A therapist or counsellor can provide valuable guidance and support.

Stay informed, but not obsessed. Whilst staying informed is important, obsessing over the news can lead to information overload and increased anxiety. Set boundaries and avoid overconsumption.

Remember, preserving your mental health is a priority, it’s okay to take breaks from the news and practice self-compassion. By implementing these strategies, you can better navigate a world of bad news while maintaining your mental wellbeing.

Israel-Palestine Conflict Overview

The Israel-Palestine conflict, one of the most protracted and deeply entrenched disputes in the world, revolves around historical claims to land, national identity, and sovereignty in the Middle East. It’s a complex and multifaceted issue with roots dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

At the heart of this conflict is the clash between Jewish Zionists and Arab Palestinians over territory, primarily the land that now comprises Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. The Zionist movement emerged in the late 19th century, aiming to establish a Jewish homeland in Palestine, which was then part of the Ottoman Empire. The migration of Jewish immigrants into Palestine, primarily in the early 20th century, resulted in increasing tensions between the Jewish and Arab communities.

The situation escalated in the aftermath of World War II and the Holocaust, prompting international sympathy and support for Jewish survivors and the Zionist cause. In 1947, the United Nations proposed a partition plan, dividing Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states, with Jerusalem designated as an international city. The plan was accepted by the Jewish leadership but rejected by the Arab states and Palestinian leadership.

In 1948, following the declaration of the State of Israel, the Arab-Israeli War broke out. Israel emerged victorious and expanded its territory beyond the UN-allocated borders. This led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinian Arabs, creating a refugee crisis that remains unresolved to this day.

Subsequent conflicts, most notably the Six-Day War in 1967, further reshaped the territorial landscape, with Israel capturing the West Bank, Gaza Strip, Sinai Peninsula, and the Golan Heights. The occupation of these territories has been a central point of contention in the conflict.

Core issues in the Israel-Palestine conflict include:

Jerusalem: Both Israelis and Palestinians claim Jerusalem as their capital, with the city holding deep religious significance for Jews, Muslims, and Christians. The status of Jerusalem remains a major obstacle to a comprehensive peace agreement.

Borders: The borders of a future Palestinian state and the security concerns of Israel are fundamental issues. Palestinians seek a state based on pre-1967 borders, while Israel emphasizes the need for secure borders.

Refugees: The Palestinian refugee issue is a matter of great importance. Millions of Palestinians are descendants of those who were displaced during the 1948 and 1967 conflicts. They demand the right of return or compensation, while Israel is concerned about the demographic implications of such a return.

Security: Ensuring the security of Israel and its citizens has been a paramount concern, given historical conflicts and acts of violence. The demilitarization of a future Palestinian state and other security arrangements are central to negotiations.

Efforts to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict have involved various peace negotiations, international initiatives, and accords. The Oslo Accords of the 1990s aimed at a two-state solution, where Israel and Palestine would coexist peacefully side by side. However, the implementation of these agreements faced numerous obstacles, including violence and political disputes.

The situation on the ground remains tense, marked by recurring violence, settlement expansion in the West Bank, and restrictions on the movement of Palestinians. International involvement, including mediation by the United States, the United Nations, and regional actors, continues in attempts to reach a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the conflict.

The Israel-Palestine conflict has significant regional and global implications, impacting stability in the Middle East and international diplomacy. Finding a just and sustainable solution remains a formidable challenge, with the hope that a negotiated settlement can eventually bring about a peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians.

Binsey Poplars

This poem was written in 1879 by Gerard Manley Hopkins in response to the felling of a row of poplar trees, I share it here after the felling of the iconic sycamore tree at Sycamore Gap in Northumberland.

My aspens dear, whose airy cages quelled,
Quelled or quenched in leaves the leaping sun,
All felled, felled, are all felled;
    Of a fresh and following folded rank
            Not spared, not one
            That dandled a sandalled
            Shadow that swam or sank
On meadow and river and wind-wandering weed-winding bank.
 
O if we but knew what we do
            When we delve or hew—
    Hack and rack the growing green!
            Since country is so tender
    To touch, her being so slender,
    That, like this sleek and seeing ball
    But a prick will make no eye at all,
            Where we, even where we mean
            To mend her we end her,
            When we hew or delve:
After-comers cannot guess the beauty been.
    Ten or twelve, only ten or twelve
            Strokes of havoc unselve
            The sweet especial scene,
            Rural scene, a rural scene,
            Sweet especial rural scene.

Gerard Manley Hopkins (1844–1889)

A Journey to Inclusion

There’s currently a lot of discussion about inclusion within my Christian faith community, as there is in many churches. Differing views are deeply felt and often strongly expressed.

After a journey of many years in Christian ministry, during which my understanding has deepened, I’ve arrived at the destination of supporting the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people within all Christian churches.

This blog post is not an invitation to argue for or against my position, merely an opportunity for me to share my thoughts. This discussion can be conducted elsewhere.

I haven’t jumped onto a ‘fashionable’ bandwagon; seeking to score points, look good, or start an argument. For me, this a deeply human and faith conviction. All human beings need to be treated with respect. I’m simply seeking to be true to myself and God. Love and peace, John.

Remembering the Holocaust

Sadly, hatred of ‘others’ is very often in the open these days, with much more just under the thin veneer of civilized society. It’s not enough to simply ‘never forget’ the events of the Holocaust, all forms of discrimination and hatred must be actively resisted. The Holocaust happened (and can happen again) when good people turn a blind eye to everyday hatred.

First they came for the Communists,
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Communist.
Then they came for the Socialists,
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists,
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews,
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me,
And there was no one left
To speak out for me.
Martin Niemöller

The Holocaust didn’t begin in the gas chambers, it began with words of hate, because words matter. So, as we pause and remember, we need to reflect on how easy it is to dehumanise people and exclude them because they are different from us; maybe because of their colour or culture, their faith or politics, their gender or sexual orientation etc.

As well as remembering the evils of the past, we should commit to affirming all people, valuing everyone as part of the rich tapestry of humankind, and loving them as they are and for who they are.

Slaying Imaginary Dragons

1280px-st_george_and_dragon_philly

It seems to me there’s an element in the English psyche that needs an enemy to fight, a dragon for St George (a foreigner by the way) to slay; an element that harks back to the Second World War and an imagined golden age. In the absence of a current aggressor, that role has been taken for many years by the European Union, which the United Kingdom voted to leave in 2016 by a narrow majority in a divisive referendum.

The benefits of EU membership have never really been promoted, and often lies about the EU have been perpetuated that have established themselves in our national identity. For decades politicians have also been content to blame their failures on the EU because it’s been politically expedient for them to do so.

We dubiously lift ourselves up by putting others down, insulting the Germans (for example), and hating others rather than working together for the common good, even if we hurt ourselves in the process. The latter is especially so in the possible no-deal Brexit scenario, as this would have catastrophic consequences for the UK.

For some who voted Brexit, the ‘enemy’ is now those who voted to remain in the EU, often referred to as ‘traitors’ and ‘enemies of the people’. This attitude is unhelpful and dangerous as it opens the way for far-right extremists to gain influence and power, history reminding us this never ends well.

Somehow, our nation needs to unite and find the best way forward, but I’m not sure how this can happen, and I’m concerned about the country I love.