It is with some degree of relief that we finish this year in one piece.
It's been another tough year in the trenches for a lot of people, and you don't have to look very far to see someone worse off than yourself.
A lot of folk are struggling to pay the bills and with Christmas round the corner, there's always plenty of expectation involved.
Recent news of layoffs at TCC & APN will add another 100 job seekers to the queue, and with the rest of the world so volatile in places, who knows what's in store for the New Year.
But there's one thing I do know, we have to look after each other. Big, small, bright, tall, it doesn't matter what colour you are, it's a good attitude that counts.
Yes, we have our issues, but right now, we're all living in New Zealand, so let's all pitch in & do something positive for one another.
We're far too small a country to be bitching & moaning at each other. It doesn't work and it's can be unpleasant.
Family, neighbourhoods, friends and foe, let's all try and to be nice to each other. For Christmas at least.
Remember, we still have a lot to be grateful for. Even those with nothing have something.
So, enjoy the festive season and drive safely out there.

Graeme Martin, Otumoetai.