2017 - The Queen's Speech, the future and the home

The Queen's speech reflects the ups and downs of 2017. In her televised Christmas day speech, she mentions the London and Manchester bombings, Grenfell Towers, Prince Phillips' retirement, the Commonwealth and the home. It is reflective and seeks to unify us. The topic of home is what makes this speech remarkable and deserves further consideration. Throughout 2017, home has always been there, but it has been lost for some.

We have spent the year focusing on technology, Brexit and Trump. I wonder though whether we need to think more about the home, our values and how we treat people. What sort of city, country and world are we creating? How will future generations look back upon us? What will they consider to be our greatest achievements and failures? What have we done about poverty and homelessness?

Our journey takes us down many different roads. What road will we take in 2018? Do we see the glass as half empty or half full? What will we prioritise? What will we do for others versus what will we do for ourselves? The secrets to beauty, health and happiness is more than developing a glossy facade. It is more than a moment in time. The secrets to beauty, health and happiness might involve resolutions, but it will also involve perspiration and inspiration. We need to try to think outside of the box, dare to be and do something different.

The world continues to change and evolve. I marvel at the extinction of dinosaurs. They were unable to adapt and now they are a mythical creature for small children to wonder at, for our entertainment in Hollywood movies and one of many exhibits in our museums. As we relax at home on our phones, tablets and computers, let's pause and reflect on what will become of us. What comes next?