It is once again time to think back on the last year and forward to the next. I am hoping that you all have had a good year personally even though it has been a very difficult year for the world.
There has been so much tragedy this year—some caused by our fellow human beings, some by natural forces. Watching the devastation here and across the world and fearing that our planet will be destroyed by war, floods, earthquakes, drought, and hatred is heartbreaking and horrifying. Sometimes it does all feel hopeless. If you live any place ravaged by war or in the path of any of the natural disasters, I hope you are safe and that life improves in the coming year.
I hold on to hope because I still believe that we humans are capable of creating a world that is filled with love, not hate, good, not evil, peace, not war. If we at least each make it true for ourselves in our own relationships and our own lives, maybe it will spread.
Shanah tova! May it be a year of peace, love, and good health for everyone across our world.
By Gilabrand (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)%5D, via Wikimedia Commons
Brotmanblog: A Family Journey 
My heart is also yearning for peace. In these troubled times, it is important not to give up hope. Thank you, Amy, for this inspiring New Year message!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Let’s hope it comes to be. I can’t say I am optimistic, but I refuse to give up hope.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Peace, health, joy, end to hatred. Perhaps unity. Blessings for all who are mourning.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Shana Tova too Amy, let us count our blessings. Wishing you and your family a New Year filled with peace and good health.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Shirley! And to you and yours.
LikeLike
Have a wonderful time, Amy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, GP.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Shanah tova! Wishing you and your family a lovely celebration.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you!
LikeLike
Shaná Tová Umetuká, from you cousins from Brazil
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you and same to you, dear cousins.
LikeLike
And to you and your family
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Sharon!
LikeLike
I’m glad you keep up the optimistic attitude. I also do my best in that regard (which is not always a stellar effort, I admit). Best wishes for you and yours for the coming year, Amy!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Eilene!
LikeLiked by 1 person