February 2026

Daffodils, tulips and even cherry blossoms are bursting from their winter rest, and preparing to display their full glory. Days are getting longer, the sunshine is brighter, all signalling that Spring is just around the corner.  

If you have been following my President’s Messages over the past term, there has been a common thread running through each message. A message of fellowship, peace, and ‘love’, love of your partner, family, friends and your country. Those sentiments have been coupled with an ongoing encouragement to step up, take on new responsibilities, in order to realize your full potential.

Welcome to the second month of the new year, the month of celebrating ‘Love’, and, a fellow by the name of ‘Cupid’. If anything like me, you have probably questioned what the tradition of Cupid is all about? 

Interestingly, in researching Cupid, according to Greek & Roman Mythology, Cupid is the mischievous child of Venus (Goddess of Love/Desire) and fathered by Mars (God of War/Hate).  Cupid uses his bow, and two types of arrows, to manipulate gods and mortals’ emotions equally, symbolizing love’s powerful nature, and its connection to both passion and conflict. Cupid has evolved from an ancient divine figure, to the modern Valentine’s Day cherub. 

In his quiver, Cupid is armed with two kinds of arrows, – ‘golden’ arrows for love; ‘lead’ arrows for hate/war! 

There is no question that Cupid has his work cut-out for him, working over-time in 2026, as there is so much need for ‘Love’ throughout our neighbourhood, our country and the world.

May Valentine’s Day 2026 find your hearts pierced only by ‘golden arrows’, as you strengthen your relations, with loved ones, friends, and with fellow members.