In Norway, there are two traditional New Year speeches. One from King Harald on December 31st and one from Prime Minister Erna Solberg on January 1st. I’m delighted to comment some important bits of both speeches, which I found honest, real, modern, human and inspiring.
What I was most impressed and happy about is that both Erna Solberg and King Harald value the sense of community. We are all different from each other and we should care about each other. Each person contributes for the well being of our community.
Yes, we all have to work for the best of our society. But not just for Norwegian society, for the whole world.
When it comes to climate change, our Prime Minister’s speech was clarifying and direct. Erna Solberg explained the importance of The Paris Agreement. She pointed out that Norway has been making efforts to reduce Co2 emissions by 13%, and have been successful even in the oil industry. But the goal is to achieve a cut in 45%, which will require change of habits from all of us. We may think a single person can do little change, but all together, we can make a huge difference. In order to achieve this bigger goal of having a healthier planet to live in, people have to leave their comfort zone and make their contribution.
Those who can cycle, walk or take the bus to work, should consider leaving the car at home. Also choose climate friendly cars when they buy one. Garbage thrown into the oceans damage animals’ lives and human lives that depend on the ocean. Every year, many children and other volunteers walk along beaches and parks, collecting garbage that others have thrown and left, but it’s not enough. People should pick up their own garbage every time they’re outdoors, as a habit.
Norway has invested and prioritized that girls get education. Statistics show that girls are forced to abandon school in order to do household chores just because they are girls. It’s both unfair and damaging. Girls’ education lifts up economy and protects children against forced marriages. Norway’s efforts are not only for children in Norway but worldwide. In Syria, for example, Norway is going to invest so that all children have access to education. The goal is to build a society that is good for everybody.
The Norwegian royal family has lost a dear member a few days ago, on Christmas day. I admire that king Harald and the prime minister spoke honestly about suicide. 674 people committed suicide in Norway in 2018. It’s a sad and serious theme in our society. The King said we are all different , we should respect that and that we should all care about each other. Everybody should be able to tell someone when they are sad or lonely, and get help. I’ve written a post about this topic https://makingnorwaymyhome.com/the-importance-of-psychology-to-prevent-suicide/
We are all different, said the King, and it’s important to acknowledge that and respect our differences. Norway is changing. New Norwegians have come from other cultures and have contributed positively to a new culture in Norway. Each one of us has a lot to contribute to a happy society.
I can’t agree more with both speeches and I am happy and proud of this country that I have adopted and that has adopted me back. One thing I would add to Erna’s wonderful speech is that:
-More that caring about each other, we should SHOW that we care. How? Through a smile, saying good morning looking in the eyes, being kind to each other, listening, including someone in a group conversation, finding extra place by the table. Share coffee, share a smile, share a joke, share a table.
It feels like we have a good future ahead of us when our leaders have this way of thinking: you are happy when everybody is happy. Happy New Year.