The global challenges and crises that are piling up as we enter 2024 are a sobering reminder that there is no guarantee that the things we value, or at least aspire to - truth, decency, democracy, tolerance, simple kindness - will prevail.

They are not - will never be, regardless of the consolations and promises of religious faith and political dogma (left-wing or right-wing, take your pick) - a done deal, an achieved state. Who knew? They always will be work in progress, and sometimes, instead of progress, there will be regression, confusion, even chaos.

So the struggle goes on, as it must and has to. Happy New Year, my friends!