23/04/2007 by David.

It’s a good day for dragons.

I haven’t discovered yet whether the district council is flying the flag today - but there is generally such apathy towards the English national day that I have my doubts.

I’m not sure why we are reluctant to celebrate a national day. I personally think that we should take up the opportunity to be thankful for England. Despite my earlier posting about wanting to have been born in Wales I think my country has a lot to commend it - especially in spring time.

Nowadays the flag of St George is pulled out for football matches. English parish churches used to put up the flag on this day - we shall have to have a look round.

As patron saints go St George is shared with other countries including Portugal - but we could certainly do with someone to kill dragons. In modern life there is space for that legend from ancient maps: “Here be dragons” - and scope for some serious dragon slaying. What do you think?

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18/04/2007 by David.

The development at the back of my house is complete. New residents have moved in to what is described as “social housing”. I can see the need for such housing - but when it happens right at the end of your short back yard it is harder to remain objective.

Soon we shall have a chance to elect our local councillors - and I do not doubt that the changes many of us in my neighbourhood have experienced will influence the way we vote. Some folks say that you should keep religion out of politics - but I don’t see how you can fail to allow the greatest influence in your life to define the way you vote or campaign.

Christians need to be seen as those who are concerned for social needs but it is hard, very hard to apply the teachings of Jesus to the issues that can alter our own living conditions.

If my neighbours turn out to be people intent on disregarding the responsibilities of being good neighbours - then I shall be tempted to complain that my rights are being eroded.

Yet the followers of Christ are supposed to be people who set aside their own rights to serve their fellow men (and women)! How far should we take that advice? I welcome your comments.

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