Endings and Beginnings

        "19-19-19-19 and now we begin to adjust to writing 2000. That number seems to stand up to be recognized. It will be a shared experience to no longer write 19 .. and to shift to a new series of numbers. For some it will be easy, for others, it may seem awkward. Such a small thing, but representing an end of an era. Will it have some sort of subconscious effect? Will it make us aware of a change that is a momentary notice or does it stir up in us something that needs to change?

        Life is full of many rituals. Man lives by rituals, sometimes small, sometimes large ones. The turning of the page in a calendar is a ritual, the turning over and letting go of a time of so many new advances is a ritual. It is time to begin again. It is time to look at things in a new and fresh way. Where are we going? What are we planning to accomplish? What is it we want to accomplish? And, most importantly, how do we do it?

        There will be many changes in the future in man's thinking and in man's way of living. The earth and its surroundings always evolve and change, sometimes in subtle, small ways, and sometimes in violent changes. The upheaval in one's own life can be both inward and outward, and can also be both subtle and violent. Circumstances and experiences can cause sudden change which forces us to look at things differently. We read of people who go through amazing tests of endurance and survive. We do not see the ones who are fighting inward battles daily.

        As we approach this new time, it is well to pause, to take stock of where you have been. Too often we jump ahead as to what we want to do and what we plan and what we want. It is good to take a little time between what has been and what will be. Take time to look at where you are as an individual, not just where you are going. We change each day and sometimes we forget to see how we've changed and the total effect of it all.

        There cannot be a pat bit of advice that will fit everyone. Even the most beautiful truths that are spoken are overlooked by those who are not ready to hear. What then can you do? You can begin a new time. You can let go of past hurts and failures, or presumed failures. You can begin fresh, you can begin with a renewed spirit to face the new coming times. There will be many technological miracles that are not yet in form, and life will sometimes seem to be at a fast pace. Yet, truly, what is important remains that which is within, that which can be given, and that which can be shared. It is the Light within and the way it shines depends on each individual. In little ways, in big ways, Light shining truly lights up the world. Happy New Year!"