THOUGHTS FOR THE NEW YEAR

First I hope that all of my friends and family have a happy and healthy 2018 and I hope that fortune smiles upon you.

         Today as I walked with my dogs Barkley and Summer I thought about the many things that I am thankful for. I have had my struggles like most of you. I grew up in a humble home. We didn’t have a lot but I am grateful for a wonderful family. I rarely saw my father as he worked to provide for us. My mother tried to make it seem that we didn’t lack for anything. Both my brother and sister are very positive people.

         When I was a boy I could not have envisioned where my journey would take me. A positive attitude and perseverance took all of us a long way.

         My parents wanted us to get an education and all three of us did all on our own. That opened the door. I have been able to meet people and go places and do things that I could never have imagined as a boy who was embarrassed about the clothes I would wear to school.

         I am grateful for the friends I have made along the way and the understanding and patience and love that they have brought to my life. I am thankful for my family and how they have been with me through failures and successes.

Life is not easy and the journey takes us through many curves and deep woods but if we know in our hearts that above us the sun still shines we will eventually emerge.

         So take a moment and give some thought as to why you are thankful and it will provide a positive introduction to 2018!