2022-2023

I look back on this year and for the most part, I think I want to say, “Good riddance.” We had more sickness in our family this year than in other recent years. My empathy meter has been revved up, from feeling guilty this summer enjoying the Cove a bit when due to health, my Dad was unable to even to do one day at the place he loves; to problems others I know were coping with and then there were so many losses for families around me. There just seemed to be so much loss, sadness and sickness. Then I think of 2021 and 2020 with Covid. It wasn’t really so bad for us, but I remember saying, “Good riddance” to those years too. I see a pattern.

We are always glad to see a year end and look forward to the next year being better. We hope that somehow flipping a page on the calendar will magically bring better health and happier times. We have this hope every year. Hope is a good thing. I would hate to dread a new year without hope. So, I won’t think about the years that we wish away and are glad to see end. This could be one of those other years, where there are so many wonderful things coming our way.

Looking back, even though there were bad things, there were certainly good things too. Every year must have some shining spots, For us those included a new baby, money to pay bills, health issues that cleared up, and friends and family nearby. There really is so much to be thankful for. We shouldn’t be so quick to say, “good riddance”. We should say, “thanks for the memories” and hold tight to the good ones.  

Now we will enter a new year with new resolutions, plans, hopes and dreams. A flip of a page, a new year boldly printed above a new picture and blank dates that will become quickly filled in with appointments, obligations but special days too. And then there are the blank dates that we have no clue how fate will fill them in. 2023, we have expectations, but God is in control and we will see how those little calendar squares become labeled as the year goes by.

For our friends and families, may your calendar be filled with completed goals, accomplishments, blessings and special times. And may the blank days be of rest and refreshment. Happy New Year 2023!