@jofree and I thank you, jofree—your words resonate with me very well…how true, that ‘‘encouragement and faith that is available always, and in many different ways’’… we are simply on new journeys, exploring the world on gentler terms.

@jofree
Hi @jofree, I have replied to your posts before, but have been neglectful because I have been busy with Christmas preparations. My mother is 95, still well, and at Christmas the whole family (about 15 of us) gathers at her home for Christmas Lunch. Of course the children do all the cooking! This year several members of our family have experienced severe medical challenges. I wonder whether all of us will still be together next year? It might be my last Christmas because of my terminal diagnosis, but I try to live each day as it comes, and notice and enjoy the little things in life, like the balmy early summer weather (I am in Australia), the riot of flowers and blooming trees, the kindness of family and friends, the smiles of neighbours and strangers in the street as we wish each other a happy festive season. Last week I went to a performance of Handel's "Messiah", with full orchestra and choir. It is a long piece of music (about 3 hours) but absolutely divine. It embodies the true spirit of Christmas.
As my friend and I were exiting the concert, the first news started to come through about the terrible massacre in Bondi, which I am sure has been in the news in the States as well. Why can people with different faiths or beliefs live together peacefully? Let us live one day at a time, and think of how we can do little things to make a difference to other people and our
communties. Wishing you all (and everyone out there) a happy holiday season, and best wishes for good health and happiness in the New Year.
@ellu