New Year

As we begin another new year, looking forward to new experiences and new opportunities, it is important to look back on the many successes of 2010. I am excited to share in the achievements of many of my friends who have flourished in their own lives. From new art hobbies that have transformed into promising careers of creating one of a kind pieces to joyous additions to families that have been a light in their lives, I am happy that I get to share in these experiences with you and cannot wait to see what else the new year holds.

But I also share in the pain that some of my dearest friends experienced. During the past year, many family members, including my dear stepsister that lives in Santiago, Chile, have been stricken with cancer. This time for family members and for those suffering from an illness is very emotional and stressful, wanting to spend every moment you have with them and willing and praying for them to get better. Or the desire to comfort parents with new illnesses, wanting to be there for them, taking up a new role of taking care of them as they have for so long taken care of you. Others still have had to cope with the pain of losing their precious children much too soon. Having to bury your children before you is something that every parent dreads and hopes never to experience. My heart goes out to those close friends who have had to endure the searing loss of a child, and I want you to know that I am praying for you and mourning with you.

As we start off this New Year, I wanted to extend my deepest condolences to all of my friends who have experienced pain in their lives and I am praying that this New Year will be kind to you. I sincerely hope that your lives truly flourish and grow and look forward to sharing in your joys and being there with you for any of the hard times that you may face.

Your Friend,

Anabela