Here we go…sliding in to 2022. I know we all thought the world would be a lot different by now…that we would be beyond Covid and somehow back on track. There were those who just wanted things to be back the way they were and those who hoped we would emerge stronger than ever, with a better understanding of what is really important in life.

Even a cursory look reveals that we are not in either place. We have all now become more familiar with viruses, variants, inflation, disrupted supply chains, shut-downs, labor shortages, overwhelmed hospitals, face coverings…the list goes on.

We have a new list of heroes that includes grocery and retail workers, truck drivers, delivery people…in addition to health care workers, hospital support staff, nurses and doctors. Do we still see them as heroes? Or has that moniker worn off?

Covid was the third leading cause of death in the US in 2020. It hasn’t stopped its march across our country, now having taken more than 810,000 lives…and transformed itself into a new, very contagious variant…Omicron.

So what now? Check in with how you feel. What do you want to carry into the new year? Yes, we are where we are with Covid. And still, how do you want to step into 2022? This is it, you know. One ride this time around. No do-overs.

Here is what I want to leave behind. Needing to be right. Telling others what they should or shouldn’t do.  Expecting others to agree with me. Trying to convince them to see it my way. Judging others for what they say or how they act or what decisions they make. This feels exhausting.

Here is what I want to carry. First and foremost, kindness. Serenity. Hope. Ease. Deep joy. Possibility. Wonder. Acceptance. I want to focus on everything that is good and move forward in service to goodness. This feels happy.

HAPPY New Year! I am ready!
All is well.
Paula