Greetings Lord William, just wanted to pop over to your shire and wish you a very happy new year. May it bring you much happiness, joy and celebration.

Thank you very much William for your kind words and your encouragement. It all helps to make the world a much happier place. I am sorry for the lost of your father, I have a very good friend who lost hers as a child and the devastation it caused for her and still does. We are thinking of you.

There are many of us who are here on Renspace who have lost a parent and a child. The one thing I have learned in this life is that every single person has a cross to bear. Everyone has a devastating hurt that aches deep within them Some people show that hurt to the world, others hide it deep away and don't let anyone see it; preferring instead to hide behind a smile or funny remark.

I lost my father to Alzheimer's disease. One day, I simply slipped out of his memory, never to return. The guilt I live with, now that he is gone is still immense. There are things I should have done, things I should have done differently. Always the question, "was I good enough?"

As the festive season passes, I hope you can find tolerance in your heart for those who find the ability to celebrate at this time of year. Although others have not suffered as you have, doesn't mean they don't deserve to smile and laugh and feel joy. You can't see what pain might lie ahead for them, or what pain exists now in their lives. Instead let us be glad for them and I hope that you find some peace this Christmas season, while enjoying the blessings of your family, both near and far away.