Words matter but the content of the message is more important.

The Hereford Times plays an important part in helping me feel positive in this most testing situation.

Reporting our local activity shows the sense of community and the way all, authorities, charities, and communities, are working together with foresight and commitment.

The landscape and local produce make me feel constantly blessed. I am shielded from the national/ international discord which destabilises me.

This new virus has threatened life more rapidly and widely because of the present way of life.

This unique situation exposes the divergence of both individual and authority reactions.

Lockdowns of various sorts are worldwide and the easing of them increases differences. Mixed messages are stressful.

‘Protect our NHS’ should be more than a trite slogan.

For me, institutions need to be working for people; for the good of all, we need to recognise the health and wellbeing of all staff involved; prevention is better than cure; an efficient, cost effective system can respond to local needs.

‘Stay Alert’? Be wary of those who use words loosely.

‘All in this Together’ Examining the implications of this, one person can indeed infect the rest.

We need a healthy team to keep things going.

Some leaders are better at seeing the greater good than others.

When we ‘Move on’ we need to feel we are on the best path.

Blind alleys are a waste of time and effort. Quicksands are worse. Let’s learn from mistakes and find a way we can trust.

The Queen’s messages uplift me in a few words.

I am happy working with others for a better world so that our children may enjoy the freedom to develop the healthy, caring life that I have had.

I value straight messages and leading by example.

Barbara Ferris
Dinedor