As I reflect on 2024, it was a year I had envisioned unfolding very differently, particularly in the political arena. In January 2022, I made the significant decision to leave full-time employment to focus on the goal of being selected as a Prospective Parliamentary Candidate (PPC) for the Labour Party in the next general election. I invested considerable time, energy, and financial resources into this endeavour, driven by my belief in the party’s values of fairness, justice, and equality. However, the support I believed I had within the party proved to be insubstantial, and despite my commitment and sacrifices, the opportunity I worked so hard for never materialised.
Instead, despite my delight at a landslide Labour victory in the election, 2024 became a year of profound disillusionment. It exposed the darker sides of politics—a world where deception, manipulation, and self-interest often take precedence over principles. Even more troubling was the realisation that some of those I encountered harboured deeply unsettling prejudices, demonstrating discriminatory attitudes and hostility towards Muslims. These experiences have been a stark reminder of the ongoing battle to confront dishonesty, prejudice, and bigotry, even within spaces that should uphold inclusion and integrity.
This journey has been both sobering and illuminating. While the outcome was not what I had hoped for, it has strengthened my resolve to fight for the values I hold dear. It has reminded me that the path towards justice and fairness is often difficult but always worth pursuing. Despite the setbacks, 2024 offered a valuable lesson: no matter how dark the moment may seem, on even the hardest days, to quote the great man himself, “happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light” (Professor Albus Dumbledore).
On a personal note, 2024 marked a milestone as I turned 60. I am deeply grateful for my good health, my loving family, and friends who continue to enrich my life in countless ways. It was also the year I made the difficult but overdue decision to let go of an ambition I have held onto for years. Closing this chapter has brought clarity and allowed me to embrace the new opportunities and possibilities the future holds.
Throughout the year, I have created cherished memories with the people who matter most. From unforgettable holidays to moments filled with laughter, I have consciously chosen to celebrate life and embrace ageing with humour and defiance—deliberately deciding to “grow old with indignity” and joy.
As 2025 approaches, my hopes and prayers turn to a world in desperate need of healing and unity. I pray for joy, peace, and hope for everyone. I pray for the people of Palestine, that those displaced may one day return to their home and live with dignity and safety. I think of the bereaved, the hungry, the homeless, and the injured, as well as those separated from loved ones through no choice of their own. May they find comfort, healing, and reunion.
I also hold in my heart the people of Ukraine, Yemen, Sudan, Pakistan and Syria—nations that continue to endure unimaginable suffering. My prayers extend to our world leaders, that they may open their eyes to the precipice humanity is teetering on and find the courage, compassion, and wisdom to lead with integrity, prioritising the needs of the many over the interests of the few.
As we step into 2025, I carry forward the lessons of the past year—the pain it has brought, but also the clarity it has given. My hope is that we continue striving for a political system that genuinely reflects the values of fairness, equity, and inclusivity. I wish for a renewed sense of hope, a collective commitment to building a kinder, fairer world, and a future filled with light, love, and understanding for all. Let this be the year we rise above division, embrace compassion, and work together towards a brighter tomorrow.
Wishing everyone a happy and serene New Year. May 2025 bring us health, joy, and renewed hope. Let us strive for compassion, togetherness, and fairness for all.
Soulful Spaces 