Across the last two months, I’ve been struggling [that word yet again] to say something worth saying about the Ukrainian debacle. My effort has been so tardy that I’m but a few weeks away from my next birthday. Whether any of my scribbling is worth the light of day remains to be seen. In the meantime, I thought you might be amused to hear of my faltering attempt to be fun-loving and light-hearted by way of holding a concert in our garden here in Gavalochori on Crete.
IN LOVE AND STRUGGLE: TONY’S 75th BIRTHDAY
SUNDAY, JUNE 5th IN OUR GARDEN
You are cordially invited to celebrate and/or commiserate with me on my grudging arrival at the grand old age of 75. Well over half a century ago I dreamt of the demise of capitalism, the creation of an authentically democratic society. Today that vision seems far, far away as many seem to be sleepwalking into an authoritarian dystopia.
Yet ordinary life goes on with all its personal highs and lows. Hence I will cease being a curmudgeon and look forward to a delightful early evening of jazz performed by the wondrous Maria Manousakis and the brilliant Hot Club De Grece.
On arrival at around 6ish canapes will be served, together with wine as befits our status as middle-class pensioners in exile. If we’d been in Wigan it would have been real ale and pies but you can’t have everything. The concert will kick off at 6.30 after which you will be thrown out to do as you please! No presents but, if you so wish, a bucket donation to Medical Aid for Palestinians gratefully accepted.
LA LOTTA CONTINUA Ο ΑΓΏΝΑς ΣΥΝΕΧΊΖΕΤΑΙ THE STRUGGLE CONTINUES
CHATTING CRITICALLY 
My dear three-quarter Centennial Tony. You are an inspiration to us all in your lifelong fight for justice and equality. You will leave an incredible legacy but hopefully only once you’ve passed the Centennial stage ! Our heartfelt wishes to you, Marilyn, Glyka and your families
LikeLike
You are far too generous, Linda but you have lifted my spirits x
LikeLike
Wish I could be there in person, alas not. I’ll raise a glass or 2 of chilled white in celebration at home instead. Hope all is well.
Diane xx
LikeLike
Cheers, Yia mas, Diane x
LikeLike
All the best Tony for your 75th birthday, wish we could be there,it sounds like it’s going to be good ,bit better than the pie,chips and mushy peas in Wigan ,as you say the struggle goes on as it has for thousands of years, Utopia (a Greek word I believe)seems to be further away than ever, Ps love Marilyn’s painting of the entrance to the Garden ,
LikeLike
Hope to see you here someday!
LikeLike
As ever you raised a chuckle. Enjoy your celebration and we will raise a decent pint to you. We shall be at a music festival near Bolsover. 😊
LikeLike
The thought of that more than decent pint and sipping it in Bolsover!
LikeLike
Have a WONDERFUL Birthday! Give up the struggle for (at least) a day and enjoy the late spring/early summer in the garden with the wonderfully talented Marilyn (her painting is beautiful) and the friends that can make it to be with you. Drink the best wine, eat the best meze, sing and be happy.
I owe you an email and I have been itching to write and debate the nature of freedom with you (a theme in your most recent communication) but work has been all-consuming. I have been thinking of you both though.
Take care and have a wonderful day!
Kathy
LikeLike