Written by Kate Manley
We are all part of the huge human family in the world.
Some groups are quite distinctive, for instance, the Jewish race. Through the centuries, they have been singled out as a special family in the eyes of God, they have enjoyed favour and have preserved for our benefit, the Holy Bible.
And yet this chosen people have not always appreciated their heritage as throughout history, they have periodically been rebellious and self-seeking. That there is still a remnant left, around 16 million in the world, is testament to God’s patience.
On a scaled down version, the family unit has been described as ‘ the glue which holds the fabric of society together’. Extended families provide stability, support and unconditional love.
However, being a parent can be difficult with the stresses of modern day living. In any family, each member has free choice, and those choices can cause estrangement. Children can go their own way due to peer pressure, circumstances of life or the family dynamics.
The fact is, none of us are perfect, everyone makes mistakes, some worse than others. In an ideal scenario, we would strive to be filled with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and good decisions. But achieving this, on a day to day basis, is the impossible dream. You can only try to do your best.
As we come into the festive season, celebrating family is one of the things we love to do. So this month, we have collated a range of Christmas gifts along with our wish for you and yours of love, peace and joy throughout 2025.
- Andy Wortlock books: ‘Cat’s don’t like Christmas’ and ‘Santa Claus must do his chores’. Both bestsellers!
- Six pairs of STAR earrings from London.
- Three sizes in 100% Lithuanian linen pouchettes from Japan.
- Mindology – the best gift to stimulate memory recall and reaction time – a game to exercise the brain.
- Two of Ashleigh Manley’s prints of the Urangan Pier, ‘Long Pier’ and ‘Pier Lights’.
- Soaps from Italy: triple milled and in many fragrances.
- ‘Once was Lost’ 100% cotton scarves, handwoven in Ethiopia and twice washed.
