There’s just something about facing a new calendar year. It’s refreshing and daunting at the same time. The clean white spaces show so much promise for whatever we desire. Of course, I suppose the opposite is true for those who are more pessimistic.
Its not like the new year is empty. So many things are already “on the books”. Some penciled in – possible family vacation this spring? Some written in ink – pre-paid field trips. Some exciting – traveling with my mom to Ireland this summer. Some not so exciting – scheduled dentist and doctor appointments.
The old year didn’t let us down, but there is still relief knowing we get to leave it in the past. My family was quite blessed – we’re all still here. Hubby is still employed, and likes his job most days. I have my dream job, and still like it most days. Our children are growing and healthy. The Lord protected my husband when he was in a pretty serious car accident, and helped us replace the vehicle quickly. It seems the only thing we lost was hair, and of course, money invested in our 401k’s. (ha-ha! and boo-hoo!)
Looking ahead at 2012 – seeing the new calendar pages is like looking at hope, a clean slate, a chance to be all we want to be, or do all we want to do – its there for the taking. All we must do, is simply reach out and take it. Take it with both hands and make sure we squeeze out of it every possible moment of life, joy, love…
In what is sure to be the first of many this year, I offer this Irish blessing to you:
May you always have work for your hands to do.
May your pockets hold always a coin or two.
May the sun shine bright on your windowpane.
May the rainbow be certain to follow each rain.
May the hand of a friend always be near you.
And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.
Happy New Year, my friend.
Happy New Year.
