In these days of darkness (and bitter cold for many), please let me wish you a Merry Christmas or whatever holiday you celebrate. Most of all, I pray for peace on earth and goodwill toward all men (and women), and wish it intensely for you and yours, not only this season of joy, but throughout the coming year.

It’s been a hard year for many. The lives we’ve known are changing and that brings great upset and fear for the future. For not all change is good, at least as we see what might come down the road.

It’s so easy to get caught up in fears, or lack, or limitation, or whatever else is detracting from the lives we wish we were living. Challenging financial times combined with social and political strife can be a big part of that.

One thing I learned from my days on death’s doorstep was this:

Sometimes just being alive has to be enough.

John

I’ve said it many times, especially trying to pick up the pieces of the life I once knew. Some of them, like my family, remained strong and for that I am grateful. Others, like my life’s work in the law, dropped away suddenly, never to return.

It really makes you think when something sudden happens to change your life. More than that, it makes you have to adapt, to be flexible enough to survive and find your way the best you can.

I know many of you are facing challenges that may threaten your life or affairs as well. I hope you weather those storms and come out better for it on the other side.

I’ll be rooting for you.

In the meantime, know that I love you and want you to be immersed in the peace of knowing that this, too, shall pass — and that you are up to the challenge at hand. Better days are coming, so hang in there.

Until then, my peace I give to you. God bless you indeed.