Hi Friends, I usually have this debate with myself—what makes us the people we are Abilities and talents we are born with Or what we make of ourselves with the opportunities given to us I have to admit, I tend to lean towards the latter. Simply because nature gives us no choice about what she gifts us. However, it is in our hands to make the most of our opportunities. For example, I love writing but I am not great at sports. But I would love to learn horse riding or archery though I am the biggest klutz around! . So am I going to throw up my hands and say ‘oh well’ Nuh-uh. I’d like to at least try. Even if I may not turn out to be the best rider or archer, I would be delighted that I learned some new skills. We may think we have the worst environment or have skills that we may think are useless. However, we have the choice to learn and work hard to better ourselves. It is not an easy task. It is tough and it is challenging. But that is what separates the achievers of our world, for even if they fall tomorrow, they know to pull themselves up again. I hope this new year brings you many opportunities to test yourself, better yourself. Moving on, we begin the year with the theme—Weird and Wonderful. For what is a day, a year, a life without wonder I got my recent dose of wonder, when I saw the most amazing water birds sanctuary in the desert that is Dubai! And did I mention we have some great surprises for you in this issue No One surprise waiting for you is the first ever Tinkle Awards! Be sure to check it out! Wish you all a wonnnnderful new year!