Of course, we know a whole year without anything but happiness is unlikely. Life is complex and confusing, and often difficult. At some time over the coming 12 months, we all will have something go sideways. That’s life.
My wish for you is this: When sorrow or a loss or a disappointment comes over the next year, may you not have to deal with it alone. May your year be supported in the community, and may you never have to walk alone. We can deal with almost anything when we stand together. If we are alone and isolated, that’s the worst. We are social creatures. We need each other. That is why we have churches, bridge clubs, coffee shops, and rinks. We gather, and we become a community.
As human beings, we are not created to roam the world alone. That is a job for tigers and bears. Even elephants and great whales live in a community. “Lone wolf”is a silly phrase as wolves are intensely family oriented. A wolf on its own is doomed. They need the pack, just like us. Without community, we dry up and shrivel and lose our humanity.
So have a together year. Support each other and love one another and reach out. Support those who are struggling now. Maybe they will be the ones to support you when you need them most. Be a pack wolf. That is how we thrive. Our ability to communicate and cooperate is our superpower. Jesus said, “when two or three are gathered together, there I am in the midst of them.” He also said, “This is my commandment, that you love one another.” When we follow those commands, gathering and loving each other, every year will be a great year, even the difficult ones. That is how we find the deepest and truest happiness.
So, with that in mind, (you all) Have a Happy New Year (together.)
Rev. Carlton K. Larsen Strasbourg Sk
