New Year Reflections

Tuesday, December 31, 2013

A beautiful day begins in Staniel Cay, Bahamas.  This day which marks the ending of a span of time, a span of life, which we (humans) have somewhat arbitrarily designated in the specific increments, which allow us to measure our activities, our progress… our lives.

 I continue to feel blessed, and try to suppress the feelings of guilt, which often arise at my continued good fortune.  The year 2013 has been a mixed one.  There have been losses and illness.  Most notably, I will forever miss my beloved brother who left us all with so much left to give, and so very much given and received from him.  Paul was the ultimate giver, a provider to all he knew of his talents, abilities and enthusiasm.  His family is greatly enriched for the presence of his generosity in their lives.

Even heartbreak brings fortune, as I found when spending time in the bosom of Paul’s family and welcoming the special and lasting ties that are bound from experiencing shared loss.  

My fabulous parents continue to be an inspiration and a guide to living this life with honor, compassion and acceptance.  Is it the luck of birth, to enter into a loving, supportive and wise family?  My fervent wish, if I could only have one, is that every being be raised with these loving traits, and most of all acceptances of our differences. 

Could we learn then, to get along, and end the animosity, fear and radical reactions of violence?  This year was filled with seemingly random acts of obscene gun violence, including very young and innocent victims.  In the political power plays, and fear of losing perceived power, the gun-restriction debate continues.  What will it take to curb this senseless attack on society?  In 2014, let’s think outside the box, and find a way to support mental illness, and keep the populace safe from easy access to deadly force.

2013 had many joyous personal moments.  Family from both sides gathered at our home for plenty of festive talk and food preparation and sharing.  Weddings were celebrated, and we marveled at births, and growing families.

Friends, both new and old are an immensely important part of our lives, enriching, sharing and giving us love and laughter.  Our cup overflows with the rich and loving relationships we have formed as we continue on our life’s voyage.  Yes, we are extremely thankful to be right here, right now and happily look forward to the year to come.

Bless you all!