Happy New Year

Every New Year represents a  new beginning. Old mistakes can be corrected and forgotten, wrongs can be forgiven and washed away, we can learn from past failures, and new goals can be created. January 1st brings new hope that the world will be a better place -- if we do our part to make it so.

Here's some tips on making 2024 a fantastic year for yourself and others:

Work hard, and don't expect free handouts from others.

Live a simpler life, save your money, and pay down your debt.

Eat healthy, exercise, and manage your stress effectively.

Set aside time to work on your hobbies and spend time with loved ones.

Protect the vulnerable people around you -- children, the elderly, and those weaker and more frail than you.

Be kind to animals.

Stand up to bullies and those who enjoy harassing and threatening others.

Do not make politics and political conflict the center of your life.

Study the issues from both sides and make informed and intelligent decisions.

Go to church, show gratitude and humility, and engage in spiritual practices like prayer.

Embrace all people, denounce violence, and be tolerant of different viewpoints and cultures.

Above all, love yourself -- and be good to yourself.

Have a healthy, prosperous, and happy 2024!

Dawn Pisturino

December 30, 2023

Heavenly Christmas Music

 

While cleaning my daughter's bedroom yesterday in anticipation of her arrival home for Christmas, I was listening to a lovely video on YouTube that featured the most heavenly Christmas music! I was overwhelmed by feelings of peace and joy. The sky outside loomed large with gray clouds and impending rain. It was the perfect day to sleep and relax and do nothing. But Christmas is a busy time of year. I finished my cleaning before sitting down in the easy chair. Contemplating the peacefulness that Christmas is supposed to be, I thought about my many loved ones. The world and all of its terrible problems seemed far away. I was more than happy to isolate myself inside the house, snug and warm, away from the rest of humanity and all of its conflicts. 

This year, as the world engages in war and political strife, let's try to be a force for good and peace around our own Christmas tables. Avoid controversial topics of conversation and just enjoy each other's company. Appreciate what you have and do not compare yourself to others. Do not engage in race baiting, political debates, or religious controversies. Protect and honor the children in your family. Christmas is a precious time of year for children and families, in particular. For one day, forget about your troubles and worries and just enjoy the holiday.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Dawn Pisturino