Growing up, we children were always encouraged to jump, as high as we could, at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve. If we did that, we were told, we would be sure to grow tall and strong in the coming year.

This New Year’s Eve, I won’t be making that eager, hope-filled jump — at least, not literally. I will, however, be praying and wishing for all kinds of growth, for myself and for all of us: growth in faith, compassion, generosity, gratitude, wisdom, respect and love for one another.

“May Light always surround you;
Hope kindle and rebound you.
May your Hurts turn to Healing;
Your Heart embrace Feeling.
May Wounds become Wisdom;
Every Kindness a Prism.
May Laughter infect you;
Your Passion resurrect you.
May Goodness inspire
your Deepest Desires.
Through all that you Reach For,
May your arms Never Tire.”

Happy New Year

Manigong bagong taon / Bonne année / Felice anno nuovo / Feliz año nuevo

to all!