In just a few days it will be a new year, a time when many of us decide on a new path for ourselves going forward. We look at what our lives have been this past year and what we desire to add or subtract from our lives during this new year. May I suggest a joint effort this year to move collectively in a different direction from last?
For myself, I must admit that I am very tired of hearing so frequently that this past year was one of the most divided ever. Maybe together we can work to make 2025 a year of growing in unity? (Perhaps this is a pipe dream, but we won’t know unless we try.)
If you gather with family during the new year, talk with the ones you try to avoid or disagree with. You don’t have to agree, but you can listen respectfully to them. Greet those you encounter at work, church, and in your neighborhood, especially those who hold opposite views than yours or differ from you in others ways (economically, racially, politically, or worship differently). In other words, in the new year, aim to treat everyone you consider OTHER with the dignity they deserve as a person loved by God.
These are some simple suggestions to begin to build bridges of unity in our divided nation, neighborhood, or family. And when in doubt, just listen. Division leads to separation. Is it any wonder we feel so alone?
Just because Christmas this year has passed doesn’t mean we need to stop singing, praying, and practicing “Peace on Earth, Good Will to ALL.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
– Terri Sersch
Beautiful message Terri ,We can all do our small part.Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Thanks for the wise words Terri! I definitely will make an effort to treat EVERYONE with dignity and respect each day. We are all children, brothers and sisters, of our Loving Father. Great advice to start the new year! Blessings to you in the new year!🙏
Well stated, Terri and thank you for the challenge!
Well said Terri !
Thank you, Terri, for these insightful words. Yes, peace (and unity) begins with me. May this coming year remind us that we are Pilgrims of Hope.
What a beautiful message Teri! I definitely will be more aware of treating others with love and dignity and see the face of the Christ in others!
Peace
Well said my friend! A timely reminder as we enter a new year.
Thank you so much for these powerful thoughts! A very good way to start the new year.
“Hatred never ceases by hatred, but by love alone is healed.”
Buddha
Thanks Terri! This is all so good. “When in doubt, just listen” is a helpful beginning to my new year. Keep singing!