Hello Good Members, one and all!
Easter is nearly upon us, although it might be easy to forget that with all of the conflicts which are raging around the world.
Now that the AGM has been moved from March to January, all of us can go to see some of the incredible Semana Santa parades which are being held all across Spain.
What other country would have celebrations ranging from the deeply pious parades in Malaga or Lorca, or in Southern Tenerife where volunteers are crucified on 3 crosses atop a hill (and onlookers weep in genuine emotion), to the very agnostic spectacle of people dressed as Roman soldiers racing chariots in the street?
Spring and the Vernal Equinox usher in many religious holidays, observances, and celebrations for people around the world. For those of Muslim, Jewish and Christian faiths, this is a time of significant meaning and faith with the celebrations of Ramadan, Passover and Easter. For other cultures, the Vernal Equinox represents a new beginning, growth, and shedding of negativity of the previous year. It is also a time to reflect, to fast and to give alms.
How interesting that modern science is now saying what ancient religions said – that fasting is good for your health, that meditation is good for your mind, and that caring for others is good for your mental well-being! Ancient religions just encouraged people to live better (with the promise that, if you did, you might go to heaven – no comment!).
So, what – if anything – has all this got to do with the U3A? Or is your President just rambling – again?
For me, the spirit of Easter means that we should look after one another. The world is divided between the carers and the careless. We have earned the right to party – but let’s do it in the knowledge that we took the time to look out for those around us, particularly other Members.
At our Coffee Morning last month, you, our Members, collected over €300 for Project4All (one of our nominated charities) who work in the community to help homeless people in Jávea and the Marina Alta. I thank you all for your generosity.
On 10 June we will have another Members Support Group meeting at which Help of Marina Alta and Radar will both speak and explain how they are helping our very own U3A members everyday – more on this soon.
Happy Easter.
Claude
