A year ago today...

"The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."

Nelson Mandela

Much will be said today about the first anniversary of that fateful Monday evening when we sat down to listen to The Prime Minister asking us to "stay at home".

A year in which the world has changed beyond recognition in ways that have affected every single one of us - no exceptions.

We wake this morning to the encouraging news that the UK vaccination programme continues but with the first warnings of a third wave of Covid during the summer.

A friend working full time delivering vaccine in an English hospital messaged me a few days ago to say:

"Basically the hospital is preparing for a 3rd wave of Covid in July, mainly among the 40 year old age group who won't have been fully vaccinated. This is worth knowing as it may impact on Dental Practices. As things begin to open it is critical that practices and staff don't drop their guard with Covid and middle aged patients although hopefully staff will be fully vaccinated in the near future."

So, although we are getting excited at the anticipation of restrictions easing over the days and weeks ahead, we need to retain a note of caution - we are a long way from being out of the woods.

Today at noon we will take a minute's silence to reflect on both the triumphs and the tragedies of the last year.

To pay tribute to those who have battled on our behalf.

To remember those we have lost and those who mourn.

To reflect upon our blessings and upon our ability to rise, every time we fall.