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A spiritual comment and prayer to start the day with Mariama Ifode-Blease.

Good morning.

Summertime will mean different things to each one of us. For some, it may bring back memories of summer holidays, mischief-making, fun and reunions with family and friends. For others, this time of year may also be a bit of logistical nightmare, as a working parent, with the challenge of childcare, and finding fun things for children, that will fill the long period out of school.

I’m reminded of one of my favourite songs, ‘Summertime’, that classic composed by George Gershwin, and sang so memorably by Ella Fitzgerald and before her, Billie Holiday. Every time I listened to that song as a moody teenager, I was transported elsewhere, taking me away from the present-day hormonal drama, of my catholic girl’s school and playground politics.

Summer can be complicated, because it’s meant to be a fun season, with good weather, outdoor living, and the potential of holidays. Yet we know that the living isn’t easy for many people. The season can be the same as all the other seasons of the year, bringing the same old, same old, and little relief.

So it’s really inspiring to hear of the organisations, and community groups, who work to give people a break, and a positive experience of summer. From offering financial support, to enjoy our glorious countryside and coastlines, free and engaging activities for children, and the elderly, to residential opportunities, that bring relief for carers. New, hopeful, memories are being created that will last a lifetime.

So today, at the end of the week, may I be granted the vision, to see summer afresh and to bring others into the joy of the season.

Amen.