WHEN 2004 arrives just after midnight tonight I hope people will resolve to refrain from saying the following:

1. "I may be talking out of turn here, but ..." You guess they are about to deliver a stinging knockout verbal punch to send you reeling and floor you for at least a fortnight, until you stagger back on to your feet before facing the next round.

2. "I can see where you're coming from". They rarely can.

3. "With respect". You just know they are going to say something which will be totally devoid of respect.

4. Through gritted teeth: "It's not your fault." Plainly they think it is.

As for number five on the horror list - the frequently repeated: "Excuse me" - no comment.

Margaret Lawson,

Aldborough House,

The Groves,

York.

...MY New Year's message:

We all believe in something, but we really aren't so clever.

Weird ideas of what's "wrong" or "right" make no sense whatsoever.

It doesn't really matter whether you're "city" or "suburban",

Or sporting a complete bald head or a skull cap or a turban.

You are simply human beings a challenge here to face;

To do good -- and to be good and make our world a better place.

Dispel greed, hate and mistrust, in friendships you must invest.

Be kind and understanding - your God will do the rest.

Gordon Ross,

Huntington Road, York.

Updated: 10:41 Wednesday, December 31, 2003