Happy New Year! This is the first column for the new year. Perhaps you have already been asked, "Have you made your New Year's resolutions already?" For me, it almost seems like a dream that 1997 is here already. As my thoughts on this new year is before us, I am reminded of the motivational plaque which declares, "Yesterday is but a dream. Tomorrow is a vision of hope. Look to this day, for it is life." Let's celebrate life!

As we look forward to this new year, I would like to share with us some warm thoughts from an unknown author: "A Prayer for the New Year." God of the years that lie behind us, Lord of the years that stretch before, Weaver of all the ties that bind us, Keeper and King of the open door. Grant us hope and courage growing, white and pure as the stars above. Grant us faith and full stream flowing from the heights of your eternal love. Out of the ruins of doubt and sorrow, out of the aches and pain and tears. Help us to fashion a new tomorrow, free from the anguish of blighting fears. All through the seasons of sowing and reaping, all through the harvest of song and tears, hold us close in your tender keeping, Oh Maker of all New Years. May you have blessings and abundance, strength for every way. Courage for each trail, gladness for each day. My wish to you in the new year.

A Warm Thought: When Henry Ford was 75 years old, he was asked the secret of his health and calm spirit. "Three rules," he answered. "I do not eat too much. I do not worry too much. And if I do my best, I believe that what happens, happens for the best." Have many warm thoughts in the new year!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, January 2nd, 1997.

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Till next time,

Trina