As we say our “Goodbyes” to the old year we have much food for thought.  The year 2008 has much to remember. Unfortunately there seems to be more negative than positive.   It is probably a year that we would rather not repeat ever again.  Whether we look at the political front with the seemingly endless presidential campaign and the wars on more than one front or the economic front with the more than scary collapse of banks and retail giants the perspective is less than heartwarming.  Not even the weather served to cheer us over the past year.
    There were some positive aspects to the year of course.  There always are.  Our country saw the election of the first African American president.  Regardless of your political persuasion, the fact that our country has come to that point of being able to see a person as opposed to a skin color speaks volumes for the growth and maturity of our country.  We have seen the good of many individuals as they have given of their time, energy and fortunes to help the less fortunate both in our own country and throughout the world.  The boon of selfless givers seems to have grown in proportion to the growing need of the millions throughout the world. 
    As we begin a New Year let us take the time we need to reflect on our personal views and positions.  At the beginning of the year 2009, how do we see ourselves in relation to God and our neighbor both near and far?  Perhaps our personal stand and beliefs could make this new year a very different year altogether.  We should not allow ourselves to shrink from envisioning a “New World” simply because we are only one person.  There are many individuals who have made a world of difference.  The reason they succeeded in making a difference is that they believed in what they were doing. 
    Do we have the faith we need to change our lives?  Do we believe that God wants good things for us?  Do we trust that God will come through for us if we ask?  These are all questions that we must take seriously.  If the answer is No to any of them, then our world will continue to sink into an abyss.  If we can answer them in the affirmative, then we have Hope that our society, our nation, our world has a chance. 
    We cannot allow ourselves to believe that everything depends on government and world leaders.  Their power is very limited.  We, the people, God’s people, have the power to change our lives and our world. What are we willing to do about it?
                              Lorette P. Nault