Happy New Year’s Eve! 2015 is Almost Here!
This was the headline from Sydney, Australia at their midnight this morning: “Kiss 2014 goodbye! Sydney kicks off New Year celebrations with seven tonnes of fireworks in spectacular display over Harbour Bridgen.”
But it’s still New Year’s Eve to us in North America — and my celebration, tonight, will include my little grandsons who will be nestled in bed, long before the new year rolls in. It’s been this way for 14 years — peaceful and quiet New Year’s Eve — as we were always the “on duty” Papa and Nana on New Year’s Eve with our grandsons. We always loved it because we were able to peacefully and intimately hold each other, praise God, and truly be grateful for another year gone, and optimistic and hopeful for the new and great opportunities to come in our new year. For the last 4 years, it’s been just me and God — but what a twosome we make. He who understands my yesterdays, and holds my tomorrows. The PERFECT match!
In Times Square, tonight, there will be thousands of people bundled up in freezing New York weather to witness a few short seconds when the descending ball of light announces the arrival of 2015. Those hardy people will endure the freezing air to mark the passage of time, but even more, because they are anticipating a “new beginning!” Saying goodbye to a tumultuous 2014, they will be looking forward to making a fresh start in 2015!
One thing we all have in common, rich or poor — is the desire for a blessed and sucessful new year. It gives us hope and great expectancy to think about the potential of good things coming our way in the new year. Reflecting over 2014, I am astounded how quickly the year seemed to pass. And looking back over it has caused me to ask, am I really embracing each day, taking time to “smell the roses” — being “present” in the moments and to cherish the people in my life — and when I’m with them — to be “with them” — without distractions. Every day should be treated as a gift from God and we should cherish each one with thanksgiving. We can’t change the past, but we can always determine to celebrate each day we have in the future as the day God made for us and to determine to use our time wisely, with the purpose to make a difference in the world around us! May you all experience a new year of much laughter, joy, happiness, love and peace!
#HappyNewYear