By Lynn Kellogg
“The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
“If you’re brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello.” – Paulo Coehlo
I’m no Pollyanna, but I do believe in the power of positive thinking. Every year there’s change, some beautiful, some painful, usually both. Loss can be crushing.
This year has been turmoil for many. I fear for immigrants whose histories reflect our own and on whose labor we depend throughout our work culture. The devaluation of education and learning and the sciences that give hope to protecting our health and environment is inexplicable. The lack of appreciation and support of those in difficult circumstances, or those whose work is devoted to helping is mindboggling.
At the same time, one can feel the growing strength of a populous that values humankind and understands 16th century English preacher John Bradford’s phrase, “There but for the grace of God go I”. New Years is a time to focus on hope and perhaps take inspiration from others and their motivational thoughts. It’s not a time for inaction or despair. I share quotes that have moved me.
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” – Nelson Mandela
We excel through our social or faith connections, our families, our paid or volunteer work efforts, our giving back and support of one another.
“Peace begins with a smile.” – Mother Teresa
I’m grateful for my God, my family, friends and community. It makes me want to give back. The loss of a beloved family member makes me cherish the people still in my life even more.
The new year is not a time for silence. It’s a time for renewed energy and action.
“For it isn’t enough to talk about peace. And it’s not enough to believe in it. One must work for it.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
“Each moment is a chance for us to make peace with the world, to make peace possible for the world, to make happiness possible for the world.” – Thich Nhat Hanh
New Years is a time for hope. There are good people in all spheres who believe in this country, its democracy and the value of its people. People from so many countries of the world, so many customs and languages, from all walks of life, all with hopes and dreams.
After all, each of us is just one of those people with hopes and dreams. I am thankful and forever grateful for those in my life and the inspiration they give. We need to dream on. Never think you are past the point of making a difference.
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” – C.S. Lewis
And one more, “When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace,” Jimi Hendrix.
Happy New Year!
Lynn Kellogg is former CEO of Region IV Area Agency on Aging in Southwest Michigan. Questions on age or independence services? Call the Info-Line for Aging & Disability at 800-654-2810 or visit areaagencyonaging.org. The Generations column appears each weekend in The Herald-Palladium.