It's easy to moan. It's simple to groan. Hongkongers tend to do a lot of both. Rising prices, soaring pollution, crowded classrooms, road chaos, expensive supermarkets, too few young people, too many old people, packed pavements, empty factories, bird flu looming; you name it, we lament it.
Much of this chorus of complaint is justified. Our heritage remains under threat by an unthinking administration. Planning for the future seems to have hit a rut; witness Kowloon West and Kai Tak. The significant drop in the numbers of foreign residents threatens our boasted status as 'Asia's world city'.
But can't we occasionally look on the positive side? Is there nothing right with our society, our government, our economy? I think there is. And I think we need sometimes to turn the mirror and reflect on the positive side of life in our unique city.
First, let's look at politics. No matter how you disagree with public figures, everyone should realise that across the entire broad spectrum, from the most vociferous pan-democrat to the most ardent supporters of Beijing, everyone is pro-Hong Kong. In the shrillness of debate, that's important to bear in mind.
What of other advantages? Well, we have the enormous benefit of living in a city that is safe. We owe much credit for this to the Hong Kong Police; not for nothing are they admired as Asia's Finest. And we also owe thanks to the Independent Commission Against Corruption; graft is no longer an accepted way of life.
Often overlooked, the Customs and Excise Department helps keep our traders honest. And when the other disciplined services have done their jobs and convicted wrongdoers, Correctional Services makes sure they remain safely and humanely behind bars.