Happy New Year!

I wonder how you might sum up 2020?! 
A few weeks ago, I found myself having a chat over a socially distanced coffee with a friend, musing over 2020 and basically writing it off as a year we would all rather forget. Later that evening, I began to reflect on our conversation a bit more deeply. How could I write off a year in which I received the gift of a new grandchild? How come I failed to think of that, and many other blessings?
 
It’s easy to overlook the good stuff -  amazing colleagues, the laughter of children, the birth of a baby, or even just a great cup of coffee! Yes, our hearts have ached for all the deprivations, suffering and uncertainty this year has brought forth. And yet, when we stop and think about it, even in the time it takes us to have the first coffee of the day, there are wonders and blessings which spring to mind, having the power to lift our hearts in thanksgiving to God and shifting our mindset.
 
As 2021 opens up and we continue to face uncertainty, let’s hold on to the quietly grounding truth of Christmas – God is with us. The birth of a baby.

• Why not think about keeping a representation of the nativity on your desk or at your kitchen sink, throughout the year?
• Maybe when you have your first cup of coffee of the day, just pause for a couple of minutes and have a conversation with God which begins with thanksgiving?  Who knows where that conversation may take you…?