“Sometimes painful endings bring the best new beginnings.” ~ Shae Ross

As we prepare to close the book on this year, a year of suffering, lack, and defeat, let’s not reflect only on the pain. Let’s reflect on the good happening around us. Let us look to the light, shining through the darkness, and grab hold of the purpose in the pain.

We can all agree that this year has been one of the worst many of us have ever had to endure. As we reflect, let us lift our heads knowing that better days are coming. Let us open our eyes and the door of our hearts to see and embrace new beginnings.

Let us acknowledge that 2021 may not automatically change for the better. We are not naive—we may continue to experience remnants of 2020. We may endure a few setbacks. But let us also realize that the real change—this new beginning—will be in each and every one of us. It will be in our perspective. It will be in our resolve. And most of all, it will depend on how we decide to see the world around us. It will depend on how we love our neighbor, how we love ourselves; and how we respond to the adversities of the moment.

Better days are ahead, and the best is yet to come…to those who chase after it.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!