January Thaw

Today in my hometown the temperature soared to a sunny 57 degrees, while tomorrow evening the temperature is predicted to be 1 degree.  The wind will shift from the North to a blustery 40 miles per hour.  This, the second month of winter, has brought a shift into some of the lives of friends and family: loss of parents, serious illness/treatment, job changes/relocations.  In these emotionally challenging situations we have found comfort and warmth blanketed in our support of one another.  We know that these challenges are inevitable as we travel our life journey, just as we know the hope of a new dawn after the darkness.  We will press on looking forward to spring in 52 days and celebrating our faith on Ash Wednesday in 46 days, confident that there will be hidden blessings along the way and grateful for the loving support of others!!!!