The Story of British Summer Time & Why We Change the Clocks. 

Every year, people set their clocks forward in spring and back in autumn. But why do we do this?

The answer lies in a century-old idea called British Summer Time.

The idea of changing the clocks to make better use of daylight dates back to 1907, when a British builder named William Willett campaigned for it.

He hated seeing daylight wasted while people slept, and wanted to shift the clocks forward in summer to encourage outdoor activity and productivity.

At first, Willett’s idea wasn’t taken seriously, but during World War I, it became clear that shifting the clocks could save fuel and increase working hours.

So, in 1916, Britain introduced British Summer Time, moving the clocks forward by one hour in March and back again in October.

Britain wasn’t alone, many other countries adopted similar systems.

Today, over 70 countries, including most of Europe, the United States, Canada, and Australia, still adjust their clocks for daylight saving time.

The goal is simple: to make better use of daylight hours, reducing the need for artificial lighting and giving people more time to enjoy the outdoors.

Even today, British Summer Time remains in force, despite ongoing debates.

Supporters argue that it reduces energy use, improves road safety, and boosts outdoor activities.

Critics, however, say the time-change disrupts sleep patterns and isn’t as necessary in modern life.

Some countries have already abandoned daylight saving time, but for now, the UK continues the tradition, meaning we still 'spring forward' and 'fall back' every year.

Love it or hate it, British Summer Time is here to stay, at least for now.

So, when the time comes, don’t forget to change your clocks!

Who was Saint Patrick? And why do we remember him?

Every year, on the 17th of March, the world turns green in celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day! But who was Saint Patrick? And why do we honour him with such a grand celebration?

The Origins of Saint Patrick’s Day

Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, but he wasn’t actually Irish! Born in Britain in the late 4th century, Patrick was kidnapped by Irish raiders as a teenager and taken to Ireland as a slave.

During his time in captivity, he turned to his faith for strength. After several years, he managed to escape and return home. But something called him back.

Patrick later became a Christian missionary, returning to Ireland to spread Christianity.

He is said to have used the shamrock, a three-leafed plant, to explain the Holy Trinity—one reason why the shamrock is now a symbol of Ireland!

Saint Patrick died on March 17th, around the year 461 AD. Over time, this date became a religious feast day in his honour, eventually evolving into the worldwide celebration we know today.

Why Green is the Colour of Saint Patrick’s Day

But why is green the colour of Saint Patrick’s Day?

Originally, Saint Patrick was associated with blue! However, over time, green became the colour of Ireland—the Emerald Isle.

Green is also the colour of the shamrock, a symbol of Saint Patrick. And during the Irish Rebellion of 1798, wearing green became a sign of Irish identity and pride. The tradition stuck, and today, green is everywhere on March 17th!

Saint Patrick’s Day Around the World

Saint Patrick’s Day is no longer just an Irish celebration—it’s a global phenomenon! From the bustling parades of New York City and London to the dyeing of the Chicago River, cities across the world honour Irish heritage with music, dance, and, of course, a lot of green.

People celebrate by wearing green, eating Irish food, and enjoying traditional music. And whether you’re Irish by birth or just Irish for the day, it’s all about coming together to celebrate culture, history, and community.

So, wherever you are in the world -

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!

Or as they say in Ireland,

Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona duit!

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If you like this story, you might also like this song

https://youtu.be/UNKETsxje8c?si=U2ghSgi5Y_uyxEIl

How did this global movement begin, and why does it matter today?

Every year, on the 8th of March, people around the world come together to celebrate International Women’s Day.

But how did this global movement begin? And why does it matter today?

The Origins of International Women’s Day

The story of International Women’s Day began in the early 20th century. In 1908, thousands of women marched through the streets of New York City, demanding better working conditions, fair pay, and voting rights.

A year later, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed the idea of a global day to honor women’s struggles and achievements.

In 1911, the first International Women’s Day was celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. Over a million people took part, calling for equality and justice.

Over the decades, International Women’s Day has grown into a worldwide movement, highlighting the fight for gender equality and recognizing the contributions of women across all fields.

The Aims of International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is about more than just celebration—it’s about action.

It raises awareness about issues like gender pay gaps, women’s education, healthcare, and leadership representation. It also calls for an end to violence against women and promotes policies that create a fairer world for all.

Each year, a new theme focuses on key challenges and solutions, reminding us that while progress has been made, there is still work to do.

International Women’s Day Today

Today, International Women’s Day is marked by events, campaigns, and discussions across the world. Governments, businesses, and communities use this day to recognize achievements, push for policy changes, and support initiatives that empower women and girls.

From global summits to grassroots movements, people everywhere are working to create a more inclusive future.

But the fight for sex equality isn’t just for one day, it’s for every day.

So, how will you help make a difference?

Because …

WHEN WOMEN RISE …

WE ALL RISE !