How wonderful it is to be in a world illuminated by sunshine after so many weeks of dismal rain! It puts a different complexion on life and encourages pleasant smiles between strangers. It is hardly surprising that people born in sunny climes often have a carefree disposition.

Nature is a great source of happiness and inspiration. William Wordsworth told of how his heart leapt up when he saw 'a rainbow in the sky. Leprechauns reputedly found crocks of gold at the end of rainbows and Dorothy in 'The Wizard of Oz' sought a country 'way up high' somewhere over the rainbow. The rainbow was embraced by Nelson Mandela as a symbol of his Rainbow Nation after the end of apartheid. The rainbow was also a sign of peace and promise after Noah's flood.

Let us give ourselves a break from constant anxiety about the state of the world and search each day for signs of beauty in simple things.