Read the text on page 135 and do exercise 2 and 3 on page 134.
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Positive Developments Around the World and in Finland
Although
global news often focuses on conflicts and crises, there are many encouraging developments
both worldwide and in Finland. When we take a broader perspective, we can see
progress in science, environmental protection, social equality, and humanitarian work.
Across the
world, medical research continues to advance rapidly. New technologies such as
artificial intelligence are helping doctors diagnose diseases earlier and more accurately. Researchers
are developing more personalised treatments for cancer and other serious
illnesses, improving survival rates and quality of life. In addition, renewable energy
production is increasing every year. Wind and solar power are becoming more affordable, and many
countries are reducing their dependence on fossil fuels. These environmental
efforts demonstrate that long-term
sustainability is becoming a global priority.
International
cooperation also remains strong. Organisations such as the United Nations
coordinate humanitarian aid, peacekeeping missions, and development programmes
in many parts of the world. Global partnerships in education and public health
help reduce poverty
and expand opportunities for millions of people. These collective efforts show
that even in difficult times, countries recognise the importance of collaboration.
Finland
offers several additional reasons for optimism. The country invests heavily in
education, research, and technological innovation. Finnish companies are
developing sustainable solutions in clean energy, circular economy models, and
digital services. Finland also consistently ranks among the happiest nations in the annual World Happiness
Report. Experts often explain this by pointing to strong social trust, equal
access to education and healthcare, low corruption, and a good balance between
work and private life. Access to clean nature — forests, lakes, and fresh air —
also plays a significant role in people’s well-being.
Well-known
international celebrities contribute to positive change as well. For example, Taylor
Swift has donated
millions to food banks,
disaster relief efforts, and education initiatives during her tours. Leonardo
DiCaprio has funded major environmental projects through his foundation,
supporting wildlife
protection and climate action worldwide. Their influence raises
awareness and encourages fans to support charitable causes.
Finland
also has many public figures who use their influence responsibly. Former
president Martti Ahtisaari dedicated decades to international peace mediation and
received the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in resolving conflicts around the world. His work
strengthened Finland’s reputation as a country that supports diplomacy and
dialogue.
In the
field of culture and entertainment, several Finnish celebrities are active in
charity and advocacy. Darude has supported children’s hospitals and taken part
in fundraising events.
Saara Aalto has promoted equality and LGBTQ+ rights, encouraging openness and acceptance
in society. Formula One legend Mika Häkkinen has supported road safety
campaigns and children’s charities.
Another
example is Cheek, who has participated in charity concerts and fundraising
initiatives, using his popularity to gather support for social causes.
Television presenter Ellen Jokikunnas has been involved in animal welfare
campaigns and humanitarian
projects. Even in sports, athletes such as Teemu Selänne have supported
children’s hospitals and youth sports programmes both in Finland and
internationally.
At the same
time, positive change does not depend only on famous names. Across Finland,
thousands of volunteers
work with organisations, support elderly neighbours, mentor young people, and
organise local fundraising events. These everyday acts of kindness form the foundation of a strong
and caring society.
Taken together, these examples show that progress happens at many levels — international, national, and individual. Scientific innovation, environmental responsibility, peace mediation, and charitable work all contribute to a more hopeful future. Despite ongoing global challenges, there are clear signs that cooperation, generosity, and determination continue to shape a better world — both globally and in Finland.
WORDS TO BE EXPLAINED IN CLASS NEXT TIME:
1. encouraging
2. equality
3. accurately
4. renewable energy
5. solar power
6. affordable
7. long-term sustainability
8. collaboration
9. consistently
10. annual
11. donate
12. disaster
13. wildlife protection
14. charitable cause
15. resolve
16. fundraising event
17. openness
18. humanitarian
19. act of kindness
20. peace mediation
21. ongoing
22. generosity
23. innovation
24. poverty
25. volunteer
GARDENING
Spring is often considered the most exciting season for gardeners, yet the
experience of gardening can be very different depending on the climate. In
northern countries such as Finland, February and March are usually still cold
and snowy, while in milder countries such as England, the first clear signs of
spring often appear much earlier. Comparing these two regions shows how
strongly climate influences gardening activities, plant choices, and even
garden design.
In Finland,
late winter often means frozen ground and thick snow cover. Gardens seem to be asleep, but in
reality, the gardening season has already begun—just indoors. February is a
time for careful planning. Gardeners order seeds, design planting plans, repair tools, and
clean pots. Because the Finnish growing season is short but intense,
preparation is essential.
Many people start sowing
vegetables such as tomatoes, chili peppers, and celery under grow lights to
give them a long enough growing period. Greenhouses are also very popular in
Finland, as they help extend the season and protect plants from cold
temperatures.
As March
arrives, the days become noticeably longer in the north. The increasing daylight
supports seedlings
growing indoors. On milder days, gardeners may prune fruit trees or gently remove heavy snow from
branches to prevent damage. Although it is still too early for most outdoor
planting, hardy vegetables and flowers are carefully planned so that they can
be sown as soon as the soil warms up. When spring finally arrives, Finnish
gardeners must work efficiently to make the most of the long summer days, when
there is almost continuous
light.
In England,
the situation is quite different. Winters are generally milder, and the soil rarely stays frozen
for long. Snow is less common and usually disappears quickly. As a result,
gardeners can often begin outdoor work earlier. In February or March, they may
prepare flower beds,
prune roses, and plant hardy vegetables directly into the ground. Flowers such
as daffodils and
crocuses often bloom
early, bringing color to the landscape while Finnish gardens are still covered
in snow.
The climate
also influences the types of gardens that are common in each country. In
Finland, many people grow practical kitchen gardens with fast-growing vegetables
such as potatoes, carrots, onions, and lettuce. Berries—especially
strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackcurrants—are extremely popular. Gardeners
often choose hardy perennials and native plants that can survive long winters.
In England,
the milder climate allows for a wider variety of garden styles. Traditional cottage gardens are
well known for their colorful mix of flowers, herbs, and vegetables growing
closely together. Formal gardens with carefully shaped hedges and lawns are also common, as well
as large landscape gardens surrounding historic houses. Roses, lavender, foxgloves, and climbing
plants grow particularly well. Apples are among the most popular fruits, and
many gardens include at least one apple tree.
Europe is
also home to some of the most famous gardens in the world. The impressive gardens of the
Palace of Versailles in France are admired for their symmetry and fountains. In England,
the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew are internationally respected for their
scientific research and plant collections. Meanwhile, Keukenhof in the
Netherlands attracts millions of visitors every spring with its spectacular tulip
displays. These examples show that gardening can be both an art form and a
scientific discipline.
Beyond
practical and aesthetic aspects, gardening plays an important role in mental
well-being. Working with plants reduces stress, improves concentration, and
creates a sense of calm. Caring for a garden gives people a feeling of purpose
and connection to nature. There is a famous saying, often attributed to the
writer Voltaire: “We must cultivate
our garden.” In his novel Candide, this phrase suggests that people
should focus on meaningful,
constructive tasks in their own lives. Some gardeners even say, half-jokingly, that
nothing in life is truly important except gardening. Although this is clearly
an exaggeration, it
expresses how deeply gardening can influence emotional balance and personal
happiness.
In
conclusion, gardening in Finland requires patience, careful planning, and quick
action during a short but bright growing season. Gardening in England benefits
from a milder climate and a longer period of outdoor activity. Yet despite
these differences, gardeners in both countries share the same dedication and passion.
Whether tending seedlings indoors during a snowy February in Finland or
planting flowers outdoors in an English March, gardening connects people to
nature, to tradition, and to themselves.
