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Good Morning.  Just over a year ago, I was asked to write a short column about New Year’s resolutions for The Times newspaper. This was a first for me, so it took a bit of thought. What could I possibly contribute that was fresh and new? I soon put fresh and new aside. Instead, I shared what I most believe and wanted to say. Just be kind – to yourself, to others, to the planet. Anyone can do it – we all know what kindness is, we don’t need to be wealthy, and we don’t even need lots of spare time. And everyone knows what a difference kindness can make.  Some people may feel kindness is about being softhearted. However in the Buddhist tradition it is described as being wisely selfish, because of the long-term benefits it brings to everyone concerned. It’s often the tough choice, not the weak one. And look ing back on the past year, I can’t help wondering how different things might be if kindness had been the driving force behind all our decisions—international, national and personal. It can be difficult to influence how things roll out.  But what we can do is put kindness first in our own lives.  As the Dalai Lama often says, this isn’t religious business, it’s human being business. Let’s pray we can each make kindness our driving force - today, this week and throughout the year ahead.