
I heard this immortal line again at last weekend’s obituaries of the legendary John McCain.
September has always been a special month.
The start of a new football season.
And a new stage of life.
The beginning of a new academic year.
And for some a brand new school.
Three girls I love, my granddaughter, my niece and my best friend’s granddaughter began a new school this year.
Olivia begins a degree in English at Edinburgh University.
Granddaughter Verity began at Hollins High School, Accrington today.
Edinburgh holds many romantic memories for me.
I used to take a sleeper there from London and wake beneath the castle.
Muswell Hill, North London does as well. My wife conceived my two beautiful boys there.
And Accrington?
It’s been unbelievably romantic here.
Verity’s sister Harri graduates into the top year at her primary, and next door neighbour’s big girl Betsy leaves reception class to Year One.
And of course my football team, as will everyone’s, will do their best to be the best.
Not everyone will be the best, of course, but everyone can give of their best.
And that’s all we should ever demand.
Today is an important building block in what may become an inspirational life. Go for it, my lovelies.