The past year has been a most excellent one and I learned a lot through my personal experiences, and through the not so personal experiences that were happening around all of us in 2015. I thought I would take a moment to reflect on these to start of the new year. Here is what I hope to keep in mind throughout the next year:

• Every opportunity to fight is an opportunity to make peace.
• Take the time to look at the actions of the people around you and understand where they are coming from. Regardless of the actions, I usually find they come from somewhere good.
• Take the time to ask your parents and your grandparents what it was like growing up for them. These are your roots, you will want to know much more of their stories later in your life.
• Take the time to be alone or with someone you love in nature. Nature is also deep within our roots; it is extremely calming and peaceful to reconnect with nature.
• BE with the ones you love. In these days of connectedness, it is NOT always beneficial to try to be everywhere at the same time. We can really only be in one place at one time. Presence and awareness are key skills that we must hone.
• Listen to the subtle and not so subtle messages that are coming at us at all times. The universe (and all those in it) tell(s) us things all the time; listening to these things allows us to live in harmony with those around us and reach our best potential.
• Take the time to connect with friends and associates. These are your helpers in the universe; they will need you and you will need them. Keep the doors and communication open.

I want to thank each of you that I have had the pleasure of crossing paths with in 2015. I have benefited from, and appreciate every interaction. I don't remember offending anyone, but if I did, I am sorry for that and I hope for your forgiveness.

If we didn't cross paths, maybe something good is going to bring us together in 2016.

Happy New Year. My wish is that the next year brings you all the health, joy, insight, happiness and companionship that you deserve.

P.S. Here's one of my warmest moments of 2015; all of us together with Mom at Allan and Carrie's wedding on September 12th. FYI, she's still doing well and just passed her 92nd birthday on December 27th.