Another year and not much has changed really. Iraq, Afghanistan and Palestine are still occupied and people are dying across the world. I guess you just have to bite your lip and bear it. So far, Israel has murdered 400 people and injured up to 1600 and they have even rejected a temporary ceasefire presented by the Palestinians. The Israeli blood-lust sees no end in sight. As a stand of solidarity with the Palestinians many demonstrations have already taken place across the world and even some Arab states have shelved some of their new year celebrations.

On the advent of a new year we should remember what we did this year and try to top it the coming year - whether it’s learning a new skill, going to a different school, getting a new job, becoming a better Muslim, etc - whatever it is, we should thank God He has given us another year to make ourselves and repent.