Do you remember that famous Maltese soap opera ‘Iprokiti’? In English, Hypocrites! People loved it. They would be glued to their TV sets. They would love the innuendos. They would love the suspense. And certainly they would love the hypocrisy!
Well lately we have had a reinvention of the story line of this famous soap opera. It has taken a twist from the traditional family/love affairs emphasis. Now it is much inclined towards local issues and Malta’s most famous past-time – POLITICS.
It is about the MLP leadership battle and its many twists and turns. People are glued to their TV sets. Glued to the internet. And glued to the newspapers. But why all the fuss? Wasn’t it obvious that a civil war was going to erupt till that one person captures the Holy Grail? Does anybody want to be on the losing end? Ofcourse not! Everybody wants to be a winner. Especially after not winning the election, they at least have to reach a milestone this year by winning something!
Well I have been doing my research. The internet is quite a useful tool I might say. All the newspapers are online. You can download all the talk shows on demand on di-ve.com. And YouTube is an unlimited multimedia library. I have considered all contestants. I have given them all a chance. But for some reason, after filtering and filtering through layers of information, one candidate comes up on top. It is quite strange to be honest. Because for some reason all arguments put forward are either for or against this one individual. As if this one person is everybody’s saviour. For others this one person is everybody’s threat.
I have thought this out carefully. And in all truth this one person was not my firm favourite. I too had my thoughts. I too was sceptic. But in this one person all I saw after all these weeks was potential. Potential so big that every time I observe this individual’s every move, for some reason things just tend to get better. Arguments become more enticing and stronger. Enthusiasm levels keep on rising. Deep down you feel a tangible sense of hope. Finally light starts to appear at the end of the tunnel. You start feeling proud that you are part of something that has just started and is going to become bigger.
That person is Joseph Muscat. Sorry for spilling the beans but I will not accept to be branded a hypocrite. I want to speak my mind. I want you dear reader to know where I stand. For the others contestants I am sorry to say that I cannot visualise any such ray of light.
My personal favourite was Evarist but for some reason he has not risen to the occasion as I expected. Dear George I am sorry to say is way past his peak. 2003 was his best year of vintage. Shame he did not take the chance then. Marie-Louise I am sorry to say is a blast from the past. I respect the women but we are in another era which I doubt she can get a grip to. It’s a whole different ball game in 2008.
And our fire brand Michael I only have two words – SHUT UP! Or better borrow a phrase used by the master of sound bites – bite your tongue. Because if Michael really loves the party he shouldn’t be going ballistic in front of the nation. He has portrayed the MLP as a circus. With his attitude, the only person or thing he loves is himself. Yes, you were a joke during your speeches in the mass meetings. Yes, you and your entourage were more than to be desired. And if there was one person who had cliques, it was certainly you. So as they say in Maltese, ‘Hallina Mike’, or better ‘Cut the BS’, because in my books you are becoming an utter disappointment.
One week to go and we will see who will rise from the ashes. Love him or hate him I would go for Joseph. My only reason is summed up in one word – POTENTIAL. For others the magic word is CHANGE. But you have to have potential to be able carry out the change needed. Therefore one man can do it…. Good Luck!
Friday, May 30, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Inti Djamant (You are a diamond)
Last week our beloved Gozitan diva Morena tried her best to impress. She didn’t get past the semi-finals, but I have no thought that she did her best and utmost to get there. She was a valid representative for this year’s Eurovision song contest. She stole the hearts of the nation. And certainly she served as a perfect ambassador for Gozo.
Then again there seems to be a sense of bitterness. Should Malta continue participating in the Eurovision Song Contest? Was Morena the right candidate to go? Are we doing something wrong? Maybe there is some conspiracy for Malta not to win the Eurovision!
For God’s sake let us all grow up. Let us get a grip of ourselves. Lets stop being emotional and start being a little bit rational. Let us put our thinking caps on and start being objective.
Morena had a good song. She had the flair and charisma to get anybody’s attention. True that her performance on the night was not one of her best. But still she made us proud. Then why did she not get past the semi-finals? Why? Why? Why?
Well why not ask the same question for artist and song representing Switzerland. True that the lyrics were in Italian, but is there anything more lovable and moving than an expressive Italian ballad? That is your answer. If Switzerland didn’t get through, then how good the song was does not count. It doesn’t count how beautiful the singer was. Neither the dancers. Neither the choreography. And let we not forget the wardrobe! Yes. Neither the wardrobe. Why? Because it is which country you are representing that counts.
I also have another observation though. Considering we get so many low marks, I sometimes doubt if anybody knows where Malta is. Are we part of Africa? Maybe an independent state near Spain like Andorra? Or maybe we are considered as being part of Italy? Or better Sicily? You know... maybe Lampedusa is one of the Maltese islands!
The thing is that the Eurovision should be an annual opportunity to promote Malta. Our location. Our heritage. And ofcourse our arts! How many countries did Morena visit before the final? 2? 3? Is that enough? Certainly not!
And putting Morena aside, what has been done in the past? Because I am of the impression that other finalists have been treated with sterling promotion before the final. So why not treat our Gozitan babe with the same yardstick?
One other thing that ticked me off is her lousy overhyped video. She is from Gozo afterall. So why not use Gozo as the back drop? Why not take the opportunity and use Morena to promote our sister island? What for? Why consider? Forget about it!
Anyway. Best wishes to Morena. May she find all the happiness in her musical endeavours. And may she continue providing us with that adoring smile that gives us hope to us hard working Gozitans.
Then again there seems to be a sense of bitterness. Should Malta continue participating in the Eurovision Song Contest? Was Morena the right candidate to go? Are we doing something wrong? Maybe there is some conspiracy for Malta not to win the Eurovision!
For God’s sake let us all grow up. Let us get a grip of ourselves. Lets stop being emotional and start being a little bit rational. Let us put our thinking caps on and start being objective.
Morena had a good song. She had the flair and charisma to get anybody’s attention. True that her performance on the night was not one of her best. But still she made us proud. Then why did she not get past the semi-finals? Why? Why? Why?
Well why not ask the same question for artist and song representing Switzerland. True that the lyrics were in Italian, but is there anything more lovable and moving than an expressive Italian ballad? That is your answer. If Switzerland didn’t get through, then how good the song was does not count. It doesn’t count how beautiful the singer was. Neither the dancers. Neither the choreography. And let we not forget the wardrobe! Yes. Neither the wardrobe. Why? Because it is which country you are representing that counts.
I also have another observation though. Considering we get so many low marks, I sometimes doubt if anybody knows where Malta is. Are we part of Africa? Maybe an independent state near Spain like Andorra? Or maybe we are considered as being part of Italy? Or better Sicily? You know... maybe Lampedusa is one of the Maltese islands!
The thing is that the Eurovision should be an annual opportunity to promote Malta. Our location. Our heritage. And ofcourse our arts! How many countries did Morena visit before the final? 2? 3? Is that enough? Certainly not!
And putting Morena aside, what has been done in the past? Because I am of the impression that other finalists have been treated with sterling promotion before the final. So why not treat our Gozitan babe with the same yardstick?
One other thing that ticked me off is her lousy overhyped video. She is from Gozo afterall. So why not use Gozo as the back drop? Why not take the opportunity and use Morena to promote our sister island? What for? Why consider? Forget about it!
Anyway. Best wishes to Morena. May she find all the happiness in her musical endeavours. And may she continue providing us with that adoring smile that gives us hope to us hard working Gozitans.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
The Only Way Is Up...
I know what you might be thinking…. the title… those lousy lyrics of that pathetic song. Honestly I hated it. I despised it. It was so cheap. It was so corny. Maybe it was the only reason why I didn’t want the MLP to win the last General Election. Maybe so….
Anyway many things are on the up. The price of oil. The price of cereals. Inflation and the cost of living. The deficit. Ahh… and one more thing… the moaning and grumbling! Well the lyrics did say it all. Truly the only way is up! How ironic!
Back to our point… do we need the wisdom of a rocket scientist or genetics engineer to foretell that essential commodities needed so much by our vulnerable economy will continue rising? Did somebody in their sane mind really believe that prices would remain stable after the introduction of the Euro? Please grow up. Pinch yourself. Go wash your face and look yourself into the mirror. Rise up! Oh yes… listen to the LeRock groove… Rise up!!
What baffles me though in this concrete jungle nation of ours is that we seem to discover such problems the day after an election. As if we are not part of the global community during an election campaign. What for? Why spoil the party? Why be negative? Or better, why be naïve?
When the vote and approval of the masses is no longer needed our proactive media pundits declare war on the international markets and economies. And the Government starts to cry wolf. How more pathetic can one get? Can we really take up more of this hypocrisy?
After reviewing the key note speech on the opening day of Parliament, the new buzz word is ‘Sustainable Development’. Very invigorating. How refreshing. Welcome to the 21st century.
The thing is that every sensible individual with a general idea of the global economy and economic trends would have foreseen such threats to our limited market. But what has the Government ruling this rocky archipelago for the past 20 minus 2 years (must we not forget!) been doing to prevent such critical market conditions and ensure that what we do is sustainable?
Something I suppose…. Well that’s what they have been saying all the time. Considering all the money they are splashing out at PBS to sustain their imperious current affairs programmes, they certainly have been up to something. Then what else would they be filling the air time with? Baloney? Hogwash? Or sensible alternatives and solutions that can be considered by our beloved citizens?
Everything is possible stealing a few words from the Gonzi phrase book. But everything must become possible because we are short of time and options. If we really want to seriously tackle our economic woes, then we need to take every action possible to get our store in order and ensure a sustainable economy for future generations to come. Rise up Malta! Rise up!
Anyway many things are on the up. The price of oil. The price of cereals. Inflation and the cost of living. The deficit. Ahh… and one more thing… the moaning and grumbling! Well the lyrics did say it all. Truly the only way is up! How ironic!
Back to our point… do we need the wisdom of a rocket scientist or genetics engineer to foretell that essential commodities needed so much by our vulnerable economy will continue rising? Did somebody in their sane mind really believe that prices would remain stable after the introduction of the Euro? Please grow up. Pinch yourself. Go wash your face and look yourself into the mirror. Rise up! Oh yes… listen to the LeRock groove… Rise up!!
What baffles me though in this concrete jungle nation of ours is that we seem to discover such problems the day after an election. As if we are not part of the global community during an election campaign. What for? Why spoil the party? Why be negative? Or better, why be naïve?
When the vote and approval of the masses is no longer needed our proactive media pundits declare war on the international markets and economies. And the Government starts to cry wolf. How more pathetic can one get? Can we really take up more of this hypocrisy?
After reviewing the key note speech on the opening day of Parliament, the new buzz word is ‘Sustainable Development’. Very invigorating. How refreshing. Welcome to the 21st century.
The thing is that every sensible individual with a general idea of the global economy and economic trends would have foreseen such threats to our limited market. But what has the Government ruling this rocky archipelago for the past 20 minus 2 years (must we not forget!) been doing to prevent such critical market conditions and ensure that what we do is sustainable?
Something I suppose…. Well that’s what they have been saying all the time. Considering all the money they are splashing out at PBS to sustain their imperious current affairs programmes, they certainly have been up to something. Then what else would they be filling the air time with? Baloney? Hogwash? Or sensible alternatives and solutions that can be considered by our beloved citizens?
Everything is possible stealing a few words from the Gonzi phrase book. But everything must become possible because we are short of time and options. If we really want to seriously tackle our economic woes, then we need to take every action possible to get our store in order and ensure a sustainable economy for future generations to come. Rise up Malta! Rise up!
Monday, May 12, 2008
Where’s Everybody?
A few days ago I coincidentally read an online news item about the Ministry for Gozo’s beneficial financial contribution it provides from year to year to two of Gozo’s key non-governmental organisations. I am referring the Gozo Business Chamber and the Gozo Tourism Association.
Without irony and no sense of sarcasm, I find it so hard to actually understand what is the purpose of these two organisations? What are their aims? What is their objective? What do they stand for? What is their relevance?
Time and time again, I just come to the same obvious conclusion that these organisations serve no purpose at all. Honestly, I render them useless. And in all truth, I don’t think I am the only one of such an opinion.
Can the purpose of these organisations be to white wash the Minister for Gozo's every move? Maybe these organisations serve as a play ground for our humble leaders to get their fair share of the limelight and feel that little sense of importance. You know… being key leaders… setting such example… pushing up the bar… in search of excellence… and all the rhetoric… these leaders certainly expect nothing but the best for Gozo. Then again, how can they not be fast tracked to get their hands on a prestigious board of directors chair?!
To be fair, I am sure that they mean no harm. But let’s be pragmatic. Are they serving Gozo’s best interests? Are they setting the pace for our beloved island to acquire its fair share? Are they representing Gozo’s interests and aspirations sufficiently? Or is it a case of looking around and literally asking oneself where’s everybody?
I mean let’s take the famous Gozo1234 extravaganza. What contribution did these two organisations put forward to ensure that the event was a success? Were they not so blind to realise that the event was a total rip off? Didn’t they have the decency take account and use their position as a pressure group to ensure that such an event was carried out in a meritable manner? Shouldn’t they have safeguarded that public funds were being used effectively? And emphasising that Gozo benefits the maximum return from such an event?
I don’t think so. Nobody probably thinks so. Why bother? Why contemplate? Why complain? Why even have expectations? Probably not worth the time. Probably not worth the effort. There were probably more pressing matters to address. A newsletter maybe? Or an interview or photo opportunity? Because with due respect, that is all these bunch of clowns are good for!
Come on Gozo. Wake up. When will we realise that enough is enough? When will we start expecting more from our piers? Don’t we have Gozo at heart? Don’t we want Gozo to be a better place? Why are we giving up so easily?
Without irony and no sense of sarcasm, I find it so hard to actually understand what is the purpose of these two organisations? What are their aims? What is their objective? What do they stand for? What is their relevance?
Time and time again, I just come to the same obvious conclusion that these organisations serve no purpose at all. Honestly, I render them useless. And in all truth, I don’t think I am the only one of such an opinion.
Can the purpose of these organisations be to white wash the Minister for Gozo's every move? Maybe these organisations serve as a play ground for our humble leaders to get their fair share of the limelight and feel that little sense of importance. You know… being key leaders… setting such example… pushing up the bar… in search of excellence… and all the rhetoric… these leaders certainly expect nothing but the best for Gozo. Then again, how can they not be fast tracked to get their hands on a prestigious board of directors chair?!
To be fair, I am sure that they mean no harm. But let’s be pragmatic. Are they serving Gozo’s best interests? Are they setting the pace for our beloved island to acquire its fair share? Are they representing Gozo’s interests and aspirations sufficiently? Or is it a case of looking around and literally asking oneself where’s everybody?
I mean let’s take the famous Gozo1234 extravaganza. What contribution did these two organisations put forward to ensure that the event was a success? Were they not so blind to realise that the event was a total rip off? Didn’t they have the decency take account and use their position as a pressure group to ensure that such an event was carried out in a meritable manner? Shouldn’t they have safeguarded that public funds were being used effectively? And emphasising that Gozo benefits the maximum return from such an event?
I don’t think so. Nobody probably thinks so. Why bother? Why contemplate? Why complain? Why even have expectations? Probably not worth the time. Probably not worth the effort. There were probably more pressing matters to address. A newsletter maybe? Or an interview or photo opportunity? Because with due respect, that is all these bunch of clowns are good for!
Come on Gozo. Wake up. When will we realise that enough is enough? When will we start expecting more from our piers? Don’t we have Gozo at heart? Don’t we want Gozo to be a better place? Why are we giving up so easily?
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Will it take two to tango?
It will soon be back-to-Parliament time. Like those nostalgic September mornings where we would start preparing ourselves to get back to school, our beloved members of parliament will be dusting their suits, ties, and shiny shoes for the next instalment of parliament. Wow… how exciting… they just can’t wait!
One thing is for sure that the ‘new’ Government is already twisting, chopping, and shoving its own agenda. May it be how to approach pairing, or the selection of the Speaker of the House, it seems that it is the Government and its supporting media’s divine right to set the rules of the game.
True that Gonzi has secured the majority, but then how big is it? Is it big enough to justify bullying the Opposition for the next term? Doesn’t the PN remember its point of departure before blowing the whistle and calling the election?
True, and for the sake of arguing, Gonzi dramatically and courageously secured another term in Government. For that Gonzi and his political machine deserve a big pat on the back. But at what gain? How many votes did the PN lose since the last election? How many seats in Parliament have been lost? To be honest, I am short of time to do the research. But do a quick Google search and you will most probably find the answer. No doubt that you will discover that the PNs popular majority has diminished miserably. Therefore does the Opposition deserve such treatment? Should this be the ideal approach?
Reading between the lines in last Sunday’s interview Gonzi gave to The Sunday Times, it seems that the new or refreshed Premiere is choosing to change the key of his victorious symphony. For some reason he is now preferring to wine and cry about the several problems he is facing. As if somebody is creating them overnight. As if somebody is trying to sabatoge his term in office. Can it be that Gonzi is having a change of heart and is planning to re-think his 353 electoral manifesto wish list?
Shit happens. No doubt about that! Being the rising cost of crude oil, food, and other precious resources, our little nation cannot control the market prices of these essential goods that we need to import. But when you think about it, wasn’t Gonzi the guy running the show before calling the election? As Prime Minister strengthening our finances, is it possible that he lost any sense of foresight into the future? Or do our politicians for some pathetic reason just think about the short term and only focus all their energy and resources on the election date and God knows what happens after that?
Therefore I find it hard to accept that the Opposition should be treated like some dog on a leash as if it can only be ordered by its master (Gonzi in this case) to play, sit, or play dead as he wishes. If we really want national unity, both parties in Parliament have to work as a united team. Both treated with equal respect. Majority or no majority, Gonzi can’t dance on his own. The PN can’t dance on its own. 49% of the electorate can’t dance on its own. It takes two to tango and that is why one has to respect the other half.
One thing is for sure that the ‘new’ Government is already twisting, chopping, and shoving its own agenda. May it be how to approach pairing, or the selection of the Speaker of the House, it seems that it is the Government and its supporting media’s divine right to set the rules of the game.
True that Gonzi has secured the majority, but then how big is it? Is it big enough to justify bullying the Opposition for the next term? Doesn’t the PN remember its point of departure before blowing the whistle and calling the election?
True, and for the sake of arguing, Gonzi dramatically and courageously secured another term in Government. For that Gonzi and his political machine deserve a big pat on the back. But at what gain? How many votes did the PN lose since the last election? How many seats in Parliament have been lost? To be honest, I am short of time to do the research. But do a quick Google search and you will most probably find the answer. No doubt that you will discover that the PNs popular majority has diminished miserably. Therefore does the Opposition deserve such treatment? Should this be the ideal approach?
Reading between the lines in last Sunday’s interview Gonzi gave to The Sunday Times, it seems that the new or refreshed Premiere is choosing to change the key of his victorious symphony. For some reason he is now preferring to wine and cry about the several problems he is facing. As if somebody is creating them overnight. As if somebody is trying to sabatoge his term in office. Can it be that Gonzi is having a change of heart and is planning to re-think his 353 electoral manifesto wish list?
Shit happens. No doubt about that! Being the rising cost of crude oil, food, and other precious resources, our little nation cannot control the market prices of these essential goods that we need to import. But when you think about it, wasn’t Gonzi the guy running the show before calling the election? As Prime Minister strengthening our finances, is it possible that he lost any sense of foresight into the future? Or do our politicians for some pathetic reason just think about the short term and only focus all their energy and resources on the election date and God knows what happens after that?
Therefore I find it hard to accept that the Opposition should be treated like some dog on a leash as if it can only be ordered by its master (Gonzi in this case) to play, sit, or play dead as he wishes. If we really want national unity, both parties in Parliament have to work as a united team. Both treated with equal respect. Majority or no majority, Gonzi can’t dance on his own. The PN can’t dance on its own. 49% of the electorate can’t dance on its own. It takes two to tango and that is why one has to respect the other half.
Monday, April 28, 2008
1234 = ZERO
This week is an interesting week for all us members of the working class. First of all 1 May is Worker’s Day. Secondly being a holiday and coincidentally this year falling on a Thursday, we have a beautiful 4-day long weekend to enjoy.
This weekend will also coincide with the annual ‘Notte Gozitana’ or better know this year as ‘Gozo1234’. It was such a good initiative taken last year by the Ministry for Gozo. But I differ to say this year as things are developing. After all do you have any idea what is going to happen during ‘Gozo1234’? Well if you don’t, then maybe it’s just your fault because you might not be seeing enough of TVM lately!
Word has it that the Ministry for Gozo has farmed out the event to third-parties. Now why do such a thing? We are all sure that there are many capable individuals in the Gozo Culture Department who can do a sterling job. They have done such a great job in the past. So why not now? Can a private body do it better?
We will find out in due time. But my fortune telling skills tell me that it is going to be an utter disaster. I am sorry to spoil the party, but does Gozo deserve this? And what about Gozo’s non-governmental bodies such as the Gozo Business Chamber and the Gozo Tourism Association? Don’t our business leaders have anything to say? Can they possibly be that blind that this year’s event is becoming a fiasco? Don’t we deserve better?
Some food for thought….
How do you expect to attract impressive numbers of foreign visitors at the last minute?
How can you attract foreigners when the video clip on the MTA website is in Maltese?
How can you promote such a massive event when even till this moment the full programme of events is still a work in progress?
Can ‘property open days’ be so tremendously exciting that people will flock over to Gozo?
Remove all the exhibitions, open days, demonstrations, etc… what is left?
Do we really think that people will cross over to Gozo because ‘Xarabank’ will be live from Gozo?
For God’s sake, where is the beef??!
Last year’s ‘Notte Gozitana’ was such a brilliant initiative. This year though it is hard earned tax money down the drain. Better else into the pockets of private entrepreneurs with the prime aim of making a handsome profit!
This weekend will also coincide with the annual ‘Notte Gozitana’ or better know this year as ‘Gozo1234’. It was such a good initiative taken last year by the Ministry for Gozo. But I differ to say this year as things are developing. After all do you have any idea what is going to happen during ‘Gozo1234’? Well if you don’t, then maybe it’s just your fault because you might not be seeing enough of TVM lately!
Word has it that the Ministry for Gozo has farmed out the event to third-parties. Now why do such a thing? We are all sure that there are many capable individuals in the Gozo Culture Department who can do a sterling job. They have done such a great job in the past. So why not now? Can a private body do it better?
We will find out in due time. But my fortune telling skills tell me that it is going to be an utter disaster. I am sorry to spoil the party, but does Gozo deserve this? And what about Gozo’s non-governmental bodies such as the Gozo Business Chamber and the Gozo Tourism Association? Don’t our business leaders have anything to say? Can they possibly be that blind that this year’s event is becoming a fiasco? Don’t we deserve better?
Some food for thought….
How do you expect to attract impressive numbers of foreign visitors at the last minute?
How can you attract foreigners when the video clip on the MTA website is in Maltese?
How can you promote such a massive event when even till this moment the full programme of events is still a work in progress?
Can ‘property open days’ be so tremendously exciting that people will flock over to Gozo?
Remove all the exhibitions, open days, demonstrations, etc… what is left?
Do we really think that people will cross over to Gozo because ‘Xarabank’ will be live from Gozo?
For God’s sake, where is the beef??!
Last year’s ‘Notte Gozitana’ was such a brilliant initiative. This year though it is hard earned tax money down the drain. Better else into the pockets of private entrepreneurs with the prime aim of making a handsome profit!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Is It All About Winning?
Not to rock the boat in any way but all this talk about winning the next election is getting on my nerves. Certainly everybody loves to be a winner. Be it a lottery, football game, and yes our beloved general election! But how important is it to win? Are we ready to sell out just for the sake of winning? Just how important is it?
Let us make one thing clear. It is a clear that the next leader of the Malta Labour Party MUST set his/her sights on winning the next general election. It is quite obvious. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to come up with such a conclusion. After all it is simply the bare minimum any individual supporting the MLP expects! But when you win once, does it end there? Or you start to ooze with confidence and finally get into that habit of winning back-to-back?
My preoccupation on this issue is that it just might not only be about winning. But probably about transforming oneself into something better. Something inspirational. Something unbeatable. After all what’s the benefit of winning when there is no sense of progress? Isn’t progress more important than the conventional win? Being it personally, professionally, socially, politically…. Progress is the only indicator that shows us that things are moving forward. That things are getting better. That we are achieving our expectations and surpassing them. That we are better off than where we started from.
So my message to you dear reader is that maybe it is not all about winning. But maybe it is also about getting better at what we do. By challenging our rationale. By approaching change as an opportunity that leads us to progress and new horizons. Then maybe it will not just be about the next win but many more wins to come.
Let us make one thing clear. It is a clear that the next leader of the Malta Labour Party MUST set his/her sights on winning the next general election. It is quite obvious. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to come up with such a conclusion. After all it is simply the bare minimum any individual supporting the MLP expects! But when you win once, does it end there? Or you start to ooze with confidence and finally get into that habit of winning back-to-back?
My preoccupation on this issue is that it just might not only be about winning. But probably about transforming oneself into something better. Something inspirational. Something unbeatable. After all what’s the benefit of winning when there is no sense of progress? Isn’t progress more important than the conventional win? Being it personally, professionally, socially, politically…. Progress is the only indicator that shows us that things are moving forward. That things are getting better. That we are achieving our expectations and surpassing them. That we are better off than where we started from.
So my message to you dear reader is that maybe it is not all about winning. But maybe it is also about getting better at what we do. By challenging our rationale. By approaching change as an opportunity that leads us to progress and new horizons. Then maybe it will not just be about the next win but many more wins to come.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Choosing a Good Bottle of Wine
For some reason I keep on comparing the choice of a new leader of the Malta Labour Party to that of choosing a good bottle of wine. I know this might sound strange but believe me that I am not trying to be some type of wine expert or connoisseur.
There are mainly two types of wines to choose from. Either you can go for a fresh white or a mature red. It is quite simple, ofcourse if you don’t want to complicate things and go for a rose. But let’s forget about the rose for now.
The basic truth is that choosing your preferred bottle of red or white certainly requires a different approach. The newer your bottle of white is, the better. But the older it is, the unfortunate risk is that the worst it can get. But a good bottle of red when preserved and taken care of over time can only get better. A bottle of red wine only has the potential to mature and challenge the test of time.
So now you might ask me what does this have to do with the MLP leadership contest. Well for some reason I compare most of the leadership contenders to bottles of white wine. They have the potential today. But can they get better over time? Speaking aloud I certainly believe that they are all valid individuals who certainly have the best interests of their party at heart. But can they beat the test of time and get better?
But then can there truly be a red bottle in the pack? Can there possibly be a good red bottle that can be preserved and taken care of to mature and get better and better over time? Afterall we are trying to choose a good bottle of wine. But we don't need to open it now. Actually it will be saved for a special occassion in the future. I guess you've got my point. And if you were to ask me, I think there can be one good bottle of red to choose from. I would prefer to leave that observation to me for now. But rest assured that we will all find out by June 5!
There are mainly two types of wines to choose from. Either you can go for a fresh white or a mature red. It is quite simple, ofcourse if you don’t want to complicate things and go for a rose. But let’s forget about the rose for now.
The basic truth is that choosing your preferred bottle of red or white certainly requires a different approach. The newer your bottle of white is, the better. But the older it is, the unfortunate risk is that the worst it can get. But a good bottle of red when preserved and taken care of over time can only get better. A bottle of red wine only has the potential to mature and challenge the test of time.
So now you might ask me what does this have to do with the MLP leadership contest. Well for some reason I compare most of the leadership contenders to bottles of white wine. They have the potential today. But can they get better over time? Speaking aloud I certainly believe that they are all valid individuals who certainly have the best interests of their party at heart. But can they beat the test of time and get better?
But then can there truly be a red bottle in the pack? Can there possibly be a good red bottle that can be preserved and taken care of to mature and get better and better over time? Afterall we are trying to choose a good bottle of wine. But we don't need to open it now. Actually it will be saved for a special occassion in the future. I guess you've got my point. And if you were to ask me, I think there can be one good bottle of red to choose from. I would prefer to leave that observation to me for now. But rest assured that we will all find out by June 5!
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