Column 1 – The National

Olam’s year
Developing rugby league talents such as Justin Olam will have the chance to shine away from the shadow of Melbourne Storm’s Big Three now that Cameron Smith may have gone too. Go for it, Olam.
Long wait
Australia may not fully reopen its international borders this year, 2021, even if most of its population is vaccinated against the Covid-19, says the head of its health department Brendan Murphy. A longer wait, folks.
Bad example
Public servants not wearing masks during their dedication service at the Sir John Guise indoor complex should be penalised – by wearing masks every day to work until the virus goes away.
Tunnel light
For those who love to use the expression every now and then, it’s the “light at the end of the tunnel”, not the “light under the tunnel”. Get it right.
Simple sign
This sign outside a company premises is a simple reminder to unwelcomed visitors to move on as there is nothing there for them.
Shopping bags
Colleague buys shopping bags every time he goes shopping. There is a pile of bags now at his home. He has been told that they can be reused. He can’t believe it.
Big dent
Guy invited some girls from the office out for a drink on Friday at his favourite watering hole in the city. Late into the evening, the girls started mixing around with others at the bar and eventually he found himself alone at their table. A big mistake, a big dent on his bank account and of course, a bigger dent on his ego. First and last.
Thought for today
When everything feels too much, just breathe, take some time to think, to enjoy, to take care of yourself.
Top quote
“To fall in love with yourself is the first secret to happiness.” – Robert Morley