Reflection, introspection and contemplation. These words are part and parcel of this time of the year. Like the wish lists, including that at work. However, whenever the wish list for new equipment is contemplated during a meeting, a weighty silence falls. Not because there are no wishes. It's because everyone ponders on the need to hold purchasing meetings when no money is available. Of course, cheaper stuff such as broken pipettes or a rumbling Ependorf centrifuge could be replaced. But when we are expected to deliver excellence in research, more are needed.