There is always somebody new at the Orkney Ceasefire Vigil outside the St Magnus Cathedral and each person has a different story to tell.  This time Nadia from Amnesty International introduced me to Susie Shearer.   Susie is a refugee from Chile who made Orkney her home 40 years ago. To meet somebody whose life has been saved by a simple message of support is incredibly moving.  

The purpose of our vigil is to petition the world for a ceasefire in Gaza and allow its people to live their lives in peace and security. But, there is a second purpose, and that is to let those suffering this appalling violence that they are not forgotten.  If only one person in Gaza is given hope from the words of one person here it has been worthwhile.

As we move into another new year and perhaps wonder how we will cope with the turmoil of our own world, let’s remember those who live in daily fear of survival and let them know they are not alone.