AS we are literally washed into the New Year, I wonder what 2013 will bring.
My hopes were raised recently when I visited a food bank run by two parishioners at the Baptist Church in Weymouth.
Armed only with kindness, Bob and Lily Mockett established their project a year ago.
They were told it would take months to set up, but within weeks they were distributing donated food to the most needy.
Demand peaked during the Olympics and again, over Christmas and New Year.
On the day of my visit, 17 clients were given parcels worth at least £30 each.
The church is supported by nine others in Dorset.
Together, the volunteers have distributed more than 700 parcels since February.
I was told that many clients are reduced to tears, overwhelmed by this simple kindness and generosity.
This spirit of giving was also evident during the Olympics, too.
Many of the athletes competing in the Sailing Games told me they’d never felt so at home as they did during those few, magical weeks this summer.
That was all down to you.
Certainly, from my experience of life, the more we give, the more we receive.
And it’s this huge reservoir of hope, aspiration and determination that I see so frequently in the constituency which will see us through 2013.
Who better to lead the way than our Monarch, who will become a great grandmother next year.
Millions of us were caught up in the pageantry and splendour of her Diamond Jubilee.
Selfless, dutiful and dignified, she toured the country, bringing reassurance to millions during what has been a tough year.
And, of course, we can never forget those who have fallen or been injured in Afghanistan.
Many challenges lie ahead for all of us but, if Bob and Lily are anything to go by, all of them can be faced and conquered.
A happy New Year to you all.