Like many others, I am pleased with the outcome of the UK government's vote on Syria.  I am less pleased with the tendnecy we have to say 'Victory for Party X' or 'Defeat for Policy Y'.  Why can't we just be grateful that sometimes democracy actually works?  It matters not to me who is 'in power' (I've never yet voted for the 'ruling' party in European, UK, Scottish, County, Borough or Parish elections, so I'm obviosuly not very good at this stuff!) or who it is that puts up the proposal; what matters is that there is enough serious engagement to make good decisions that echo the mind of the people... or at least that of those with the energy to voice their views.

Having said all that, I'm equally aware of the power of vocal minorities, which can totally skew perception and cause problems for those charged with implementing the outcome of their demands. 

And I am aware of the potential for vocal minorities on ocassion to be dangerous, such as some of the extremist groups, of all persuasions, throughout the UK.

I think I just wish that we could recognise the wonder that democracy is, and rejoice when it seems as if it works without resort to language of winners and losers.

This week I have heard a lot of gripes over minor things, which have annoyed me, because there are many, many major things happening locally and globally.  As is my wont, I started typing and this is what came out:

Perspectives:

Blessed are those who are bored at work; for they have paid employment

Blessed are those who are stuck in traffic jams; for they have somewhere to go

Blessed are those who grumble that food is not to their liking; for they have food to eat

Blessed are those who 'don't have a thing to wear'; for they have many things to wear

Blessed are those who hate double maths (geography/PE/other subject); for they have access to education

Blessed are those who appointment is running late; for they have access to health care

Blessed are those who grumble about government policy; for they have freedom to disagree

Blessed are those who moan about the hymns/sermon/prayers; for they have freedom to practice their faith

Blessed are we when life throws up minor irritations and even major annoyances, for so it is for all people, and, if nothing else, it reminds us how blessed we are that by accident of birth we live in a liberal western democracy.