Welcome 2010

The New Year is now upon us. We have a ready-made opportunity, both as individuals and as a nation, to reflect on how we have behaved toward friends, family, colleagues and all we've come across in the past year. Today is the day that marks the end of one year and the beginning of the next year; it is also the day on which the year count increases. In many cultures, the event is celebrated in some manner.

Indeed, in modern times, the celebration of New Year is a major activity worldwide. Many large-scale events are held in major cities around the world on New Year's Eve (December 31), accompanied by the largest fireworks.

It is also always considered as the time for fun and enjoyment. The day is usually marked, by most people, as a new beginning toward a life filled with hope and optimism. We remember all the good and bad things of the passing year on this day and carry forward the positive experiences we have cherished.

One of the things that make New Year's Eve special is the spirit of giving gifts to our loved ones. Each one of us looks forward to this day to open presents which are considered to be the token of love and affection on this very day.

We are obliged by our various faiths to treat each other with respect, love one another and help our fellow human beings.

If we have made enemies during the year we must seek to make a truce with these people and start afresh in the coming year.

Once again, we at The Point wish to extend an enormous "thank you" to all those who have advertised with us during the year or worked with us in any way. Media is a difficult business and we would not survive were it not for your support.

For the coming year, we pray for peace, love and prosperity for all the people of The Gambia.

We hope that the Press will enjoy a year of increased freedom and that repressive media laws will be a thing of the past. We pray for co-operation between people of all political and religious convictions and hope that all can share in the fruits of their wonderful union.