We find ourselves preparing to close out the year. Most of us, in a triggered and conditioned response, might offer a sigh and make a comment such as a new year is most welcome and surely would not be any worse than this year. Testimony about COVID-19 would be example one.
Yet, we do have reasons to be thankful. First, most of us are not in a battle with the virus and have been careful with wearing masks, washing our hands, and keeping a distance from others, or, we should be careful with our habits.
The vaccine for COVID-19 has arrived to offer encouragement and hope, Most of us will be careful not to be over-confident that the presence of vaccine will permit senseless behavior.
We take comfort that there is love in the air during the year-end holidays and that it will continue into the new year.
On a personal basis, it is with thankfulness that recent birthday wishes have been plentiful, and a loving family surrounds. My family experience always has been one of love, encouragement, and serenity.
More thankfulness is expressed here, in warm wishes and condolences following the passing last month of an older sister, Barbara C. Siljestrom, of Elgin. She was a good example and a loving person. We must be ready for changes in our lives and understand that death is a part of the living process. Nobody can escape the clutches of death. That is why each day must be viewed with joy and nothing should be taken for granted. More togetherness and more peace will make the process easier and more joyful for everybody. If we understand the plight of others better who stand on firmer ground in our interpersonal relations.
It is simple: Seek to be a force for good. The glass always must be half full, even in difficult times. Self-pity only produces stress and negativity.
Batavia Chamber of Commerce president Margaret Perreault said Batavia 2020 Citizen of the year Bob Hansen is a community-minded individual who seeks to be helpful in the community,
Clear and Concise, Week 51:
• It is not always easy to be peaceful in interpersonal relations, however, it is always the best solution in the long run. It saves grief, stress, and on occasion, lives. History is replete with instances in which peace was not present and not a preference.