I recently attended a workshop beginning at 8.30 a.m. As I and several others milled around, I asked one of the organisers: "Hey, what happened to the fresh fruit or continental breakfast?" He simply responded: "Budget cuts."

It reminded me that we are living in challenging times. As adults we are somewhat more aware of the conditions and so make decisions based thereon.

But, I believe, that it is more important, now than ever, to develop a sense of value and appreciation in our young people, to have conversations about valuing what one does have while still dreaming of bigger and better things.

As my students would say, things in Bermuda are 'messed up'. But if we look at other places around the world, we are blessed. To take that for granted would be a shame.

We may not be where we want to be but we should be glad we are not where we were or where we could be.