This is to all the survivors, including those who read but don't comment.

I was feeling a little weird about saying "happy new year" since the world seems to be going to hell even more than usual these days.  But I realized that we who are committed to healing and growth have been making steady strides forward. How great is that?! Some people reach a certain age and stop growing, but we keep working hard, growing and ultimately blossoming. It's beautiful and wonderful to witness and experience.

Not so long ago I was barely hanging on by my fingernails, and that phase went on for a very long time. Lately things have visibly improved for me, but I know that that time of misery and barely hanging on laid the foundation for the progress of the past year. 

I believe that the healing we do radiates outward from us and benefits the world at large. I know that we all benefit each other. So I believe we are each doing important work, for ourselves and for the larger world. I honor each of you for your courage and persistence.  I believe in you, I cherish you, and I thank you. 

Here's to another year of courageous work and persistence! Here's to another year of nurturing the growth of our courage and our love!