We all love the holidays but it sure can take its toll on us financially, physically and mentally.

I had great Christmas holidays. Everything went as planned and expected with only a couple surprises thrown in but it was all good. Having learned to be flexible I don’t let unexpected issues throw me. A lot of stuff is completely out of our control and as long as you take it all in stride, all will turn out as it should. Well, that’s my philosophy anyway.

New Year’s hasn’t as yet happened (by deadline) so can only hope it is quiet and peaceful. Not sure what Morgan is doing but know I will see him or hear from him at some point. Our bond is secure so there is no guilt or need to do all the traditional things.

We each have lots for which we can be grateful during the past year but there is much we need to fix in order to have a prosperous, healthy and happy New Year. Most of us can’t do anything to correct the big things that need resolving. Individually we can be more careful with our language so as not to create a hostile environment. We can’t eliminate anti-Semitism, racism or any other pervasive hate but we can change our own attitudes and become more accepting. Individually we can stop saying refugees are the source of all our problems and influence others by example by welcome immigrants with warmth and kindness. I can’t stop the war Hamas and Israel are waging against each other or chase Russia out of Ukraine but I can try to heal wounds I may have created in my own little corner of the world by making amends for my wrongs and forgiving those who have hurt me.

We can smile more to strangers on the street. We can be more willing to help others in our orbit – helping to carry their groceries, opening doors, letting others go first, inviting people in, shoveling a driveway, offering a ride, sharing a meal, checking in on others, making sure every person around you feels respected, seen, heard and cared for.

None of these things cost much, take copious amounts of time, are challenging or cause personal hardship. But the benefit given is incalculable, perpetual and nourishes the soul.

If we each take more of an interest in those close to us, help those in need, are productive, be conscious of our words and actions and live honourably, it will be the greatest enhancement to our world. We don’t have to become a different person or make changes overnight but we can all try to do better.

It’s an ongoing battle, I know. I have a long way to go and I slip up a lot but trying is essential. Accepting or allowing ourselves to be base or less than we can be, is hurtful to others but more importantly it is self-destructive.

Let’s all do and be a little bit better in 2024.

Wishing everyone a happy New Year filled with peace, happiness and health.

twocentsworth40@gmail.com

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