"Every generation has to fight for equality. You have never won... But the kids today are the best generations ever about inclusion and they can make it happen. So that is my hope. They are going to nail it."

While cheesecake may be seen as a little old school and daggy, you can’t argue with how much it reminds you of a good time. Go hard, Cheesecake, you weird and wonderful tidal wave of caloric density.

From a casual chat about good old rock’n’roll to COVID-19 bubble buddies, Big Issue vendor Jade and customer Hilary are dear friends.

We’re battle‑weary, when it comes to being hopeful. We’ve hoped, collectively, rather a lot over the past couple of years, and look where it’s got us. Public Service Announcement: there are many reasons to be hopeful.

For something different this Christmas, throw another peach on the barbie. Grandma might think you’ve lost the plot, but I bet she’ll be going in for seconds.

We take a moment to appreciate the connections that got us through what was a tough year for many. The Big Issue editor Amy Hetherington shares how much community means to our vendors – and how much they mean to their communities.

I imagine myself sometimes, old and grizzled and grey. It isn’t a generic lover I see next to me, rocking on the proverbial porch. It’s Alice.

Let’s lower our personal carbon footprints. But we need to recognise that “us” means all of us – individuals, governments and, yes, really big companies.

Read a powerful essay by Grace Tame, 2021 Australian of the Year and a survivor of abuse, who is using her voice to advocate for survivors and ensure their stories are heard.