Winter is the darkest time of year. Days are shorter, and the darkness can affect our moods and our production at work. Some are helped by additional time outdoors. Still others are helped by “daylight” lamps in their office or homes. But tragically, others will keep personal darkness to themselves, risking health or life. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline is confidential and available 24-7. If you know someone prone to depression, share the number. Post it at wo

On the church calendar, January 6th is the 12th day of Christmas. It is Epiphany. Sunday school remembers it with the story of the magi, traveling to worship the baby Christ child bringing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. An Epiphany is an “aha!” It is a moment when Jesus’ true identity as the Son of God is revealed. In this story, Jesus’ identity and purpose is revealed through the gifts. Gold: Christ is King of Kings. Frankincense: Christ is worthy of worship.

I don’t like New Year’s Resolutions. For me, with amazing consistency, they set me up to fail. So, what if, instead, we take a moment each day to be grateful? You could even start a little notebook or journal … or start a list on your smart phone. Each day, one thing, one moment, one interaction, one person, one memory. And if you skip a day? You have not failed. For tomorrow is a new day! And imagine the list you will have when your family gathers for Thanksgiving th