It’s a New Year and with it comes new hopes, opportunities and challenges. It is no secret that several people in our community could hardly wait for 2007 to become history, because for them, it was a difficult year. But as we embark on the journey into 2008 we should look at some of the lessons that 2007 has taught us.

As the year drew to an end, shortly after the messages of joy and peace expressed over Christmas, the world was shocked and saddened by the assassination of Benazir Bhutto, former prime minister of Pakistan. Ever since Mrs. Bhutto returned to Pakistan to contest the upcoming general elections, seeking her third term after eight years of exile, her life was in danger. In fact, quite a few people believe that she should not have returned to Pakistan, and definitely not to active politics, as her assassination was a strong possibility. But Mrs. Bhutto, although fully cognizant of the dangers she faced, was undeterred. She was totally and passionately committed to restoring democracy to her country. Fear did not dissuade this commitment.

Bhutto’s unfortunate death leaves a clear message that irrespective of the dangerous odds, those who are committed to their respective causes and goals should relentlessly pursue them. To the uncommitted, such dedication may seem reckless, but risks are a very real part of life, and if we allow risks to prevent us from meeting our goals, we will hardly overcome any challenge.

Another lesson that 2007 taught us was self-confidence, as exemplified by Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama. Although relatively inexperienced, and a Black man, Obama entered the race with determined to be a serious candidate, focused on being the first Black president of the United States. His intent was never to be simply the token Black candidate. So far, nothing has deterred him, not even the criticism from his own race, many of whom believe that America would never select a Black president. Today, he seriously poised to be nominated as the Democratic candidate, especially with his winning the Iowa Caucus, against main rival Hillary Clinton and John Edwards. Last year, as we watched him campaign, we saw his confidence surge. Obama has ignored the negative arguments against his campaign, and it is now possible that he could really be the Democratic representative in the general elections in November.

All these lessons have a common theme - persistence despite significant odds and challenges – and will be particularly relevant this year, which many are predicting will be a difficult year.

Certainly, there are some indicators that the year could be a challenging one, especially economically. But, this is nothing new. There have been several very challenging years in the past, which most people did successfully overcome. Life is all about cycles; some downward, some upward. The ability to cope with the challenges of the downward cycle depends on the decisions we make to deal with them. Our decisions are the guideposts of our lives, and, accordingly, they should be made with serious consideration. It is particularly important to make wise financial decisions, so as to be able to cope with any economic difficulties that could arise. Good choices will enable people to turn challenges into opportunities – lemons into lemonade if you will.

We certainly trust that the lessons of commitment and self confidence taught in 2007 through the life and experiences of Benazir Bhutto and Barack Obama will resonate in the wider community, enabling it to overcome whatever challenges the New Year may bring. Happy and blessed New Year to all.