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We may differ little from most other countries in the multiplicity
of the problems that confront us. We share the evils which
are theirs and ours and they are highlighted in the media
to make us despair of the future of societies affected by
them.
And the impression given here and elsewhere is that life
in this day and age is fraught with danger so that to live
safely and happily demands careful thought and wise action
from each of us.
It also means that the demands on the keepers of law and
order here are very many and they need all the skill, ingenuity
and patience available to them in their attempts to attain
a peaceful and prosperous society. It is an endless task,
for with people there is always the weakness, sinfulness and
lawlessness of a debased humanity.
We must do what we can as good citizens to make this the
kind of country good for the good people who are in the huge
majority. We share the sentiment of Theodore Roosevelt speaking
about his USA: "This country will not be a good place
for any of us to live in unless we make it a good place for
all of us to live in."
There is the imbalance in the media - bad news is the news
- and good news is often given little or no recognition and
less publicity. In Comment we try to be positive in our appreciation
of what is worthy of commendation.
We think that a sporting event - very many of us are ex-soccer
players, players, spectators and viewers of "the beautiful
game" - deserves our unqualified approval, the Milk cup.
Happily it gets proper media coverage. We know how it all
began and by whom its took form and shape. A good idea germinated
in the minds of a few has become a stupendous achievement.
And in specific ways - teams who participate come from many
countries across the world, famous clubs are there with youngsters
who could become icons of the sport just like so many former
Milk Cup players of world renown.
The tournament is valuable in fostering cross-community relations
and as a million pound industry with good effect on the economy
of the country. The 2006 tournament marked twenty-four years
of continuous growth, influence and prestige.
We make the point that beneficial community events must not
be undervalued. Whatever is done to benefit people, and how
they live must be commended.
That is what the Orange Institution is about, reminding people
of the way to live fully and happily, by faith in Christ and
with concentration on the value of Christian character and
conduct. That contribution to life in any society is most
important.
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