New Year gatherings are an ideal time to write group blessings together.
Happy New Year! This year the Gregorian and lunisolar calendar happen to coincide at a close time to one another, giving us an extended opportunity to ring in the new year(s) with friends and family. We've enjoyed reading news of people around the world celebrating the holidays in various ways that honor historical traditions, while adding their own twists to make the celebration uniquely theirs.
During these months, we've also heard about family and friends who live in different places gathering for reunions and using the holidays not just to celebrate the New Year, but to celebrate or commemorate important events from earlier this year. One thing that comes to mind for us is how these special times give us not only the opportunity to experience the magic of in-person day-to-day laughs and conversation, but also the chance to collectively participate in sending New Year's blessings or well wishes to others.
Perhaps while enjoying reunions, relaxing after dinner one night might be a perfect time to gather round and sign the same card for a cousin or niece who will be celebrating sweet 16 in a few months. It could also be a nice time to write a group letter for an upcoming Spring wedding with individual bits of wisdom and a blessing from each member of the family, or an opportune time to gather stories of the achievements and contributions of a loved one who will be retiring soon.
No matter what stage we're in, receiving words that represent the hearts and wishes of people who think of us is a welcome joy.
As we finish meandering and visiting with friends (February is the real start of the work year this year anyway!) we hope that all of your wishes for the new year come true.
