January is named for the Roman God Janus who was literally two-faced – able to look forwards and backwards simultaneously. Isn’t that what we do with our drinking-laughing-kissing on the stroke of midnight December 31^st celebration of the passage from old year to new? Yes, we begin with a clean slate of time – that’s one side. But on the other side are last year’s problems, issues and challenges that carry over and continue.

For me, 2015 ended on a life-changing crescendo – helping my parents move from their home of 40+ years to a condominium apartment. For them, an emotionally-charged physically demanding process, culminating in less space but more freedom. They will accept, adapt to and perhaps even embrace these lifestyle changes. My father was thrilled when we had our first snowfall, and he did not to have to shovel anything. My mother delights in not having two-up two-down flights to navigate throughout the day. With each passing season, I hope they will appreciate and thrive in their new home – my parents, my neighbours.

2016 began with the slight sniffly cold that eluded me over the holidays (unlike some family members and colleagues). On Monday January 4th, I kick-started the busiest time of our work year with a team of 3.5 instead of 6 (one person will be with us half-time until his replacement is hired). So far, so good, but greater challenges lie ahead.

I cling to this one hope: I know I can do whatever I need to do in life, through Christ who strengthens me. With God all things are possible – I have seen miracles and am believing for more. And the promises of Romans 8:28 have proven true many times in my life; they will again.

Life is a marathon, not a sprint. I was on my mark, got ready, set and I’m a runnin’

May your year 2016 be a faith-full and fruitful one.