Drought, bushfires, flooding, a global pandemic, economic uncertainty...more heavy rain and flooding...what's next?
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It could be easy to be beaten down by the challenges of the past year - or more in the case of the drought.
But before we slip in to the varying depths of despair, perhaps we should remind ourselves of the challenges and uncertainty faced by generations of the past.
There have been two world wars as well as several other long-drawn out combats, a global influenza pandemic and other diseases that have long impacted society, recessions, depressions, and many devastating bushfires and tragic weather events.
This reflection should not be in an attempt to chastise ourselves for feeling down, challenged or even defeated in the face of current circumstances - we are most definitely living in tough times which impact us all in different ways.
This reflection should be considered to remind ourselves that we come from generations of resilience and determination to survive.
There is no better time than this week to considered such reflection. Saturday, August 15 marks the 75th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific Day.
This day came after several years of battle, social restrictions, economic uncertainty, feelings of hopelessness and uncertainty, and devastating loss of life.
The day, "Victory in the Pacific Day", commemorates Japan's unconditional surrender as Emperor Hirohito announced Japan's acceptance of the Allies' terms.
The surrender of Nazi Germany had occurred three months earlier.
At the time of VP Day, Australian forces were engaged in campaigns across the Pacific - in New Guinea, Bougainville, New Britain, Borneo, and in the Philippines - and prisoners of the Japanese were spread throughout Asia.
Most had expected the war against Japan to continue into 1946, but instead Australians enjoyed what Prime Minister Chifley called "this glorious moment".
Our team of journalists are eager to share the stories of those impacted by this battle, from their loved ones and those who served.
We'd love to hear your family's stories of that moment and their contributions to the VP Day fight.
If you've got letters at home, memorabilia, or stories you'd like to tell, we'd love to share them. You can let us know your family's stories through our portal here.
In the meantime, we have already started to share stories from those who served or had loved ones who served in the Pacific during WWII.
Stay safe and strong through these current challenging times,
Jackie Meyers
Editor