Jarryd Westerdale, Northsider journalist, writes:
Many people may be struggling to find reasons to be jolly as the holiday season approaches.
What should be a few weeks of releasing some pressure and recharging the batteries could potentiality be full of headaches caused by the failure of things considered basic essentials of a functioning society.
Prolonged hours in the dark, the threat of intermittent water supply and a road network under severe strain creates disjointed daily routines and makes sliding into that holiday rhythm an impossibility. The simple joy of planning a Christmas roast could prove stressful as one must gamble on what stage of the rolling blackouts will be in effect or wonder which strip of copper cable might go missing.
Some may be lucky enough to find a back-up power solution under the Christmas tree this year but even driving to the shops one may have to navigate Little Falls’s brand new landmark. Those entrusted with preserving society-sustaining infrastructure could be accused of not taking their responsibilities seriously but those with their hands on the levers of power were placed there by the general public via the ballot box.
The state of the infrastructure is a reminder of the importance of long term vision, preserving the things that are valuable and being surrounded by the right people. The powers that be may rob you of modern convenience … but cherishing friends and family is free of any taxation.
This Christmas, give yourself the gift of being in the company of those you love and who see your value in return.
Thank you to everyone who has made 2022 another special year and thank you to everyone who continues to pick up this publication every week. This community is a pleasure to work for and I wish you all a Merry Christmas.
