Hope, Change, and Responsibility

Tomorrow, a new president takes office promising change and urging personal responsibility. Sometimes, these words are applauded but are just that...words.

But how about the US Airways crew and the many barge captains, helicopter pilots, and rescue personnel......having faith, taking action, and accepting that they had to take immediate responsibility. The results, all aboard safe and sound. The immediate alternative would have been hundreds or thousands dead in Manhattan or New Jersey.

Yesterday, at my Sunday school class, a lady came back to teach after a 1-1/2 year fight with cancer. She spoke of her faith in a larger purpose, not being angry that this happened to her, because life is not about her or us. We all have a purpose and sometimes have to endure the worst ta gain the best.

I think that now, regardless of your political stripes, Mr. Obama represents an opportunity to make a change, make a difference, not for just for him to act, but for all of us.

Happy New Year or is it New Life?

17 days into the new year and musing on the last six months. A year ago, vacationing in Paris, happily(?) married, enjoying the City of Lights for the sixth or seventh visit and planning with my wife living in France for an extended period of time each year ....some time in the future after #1 daughter is out of college. Thinking apartment time share or house swap.

Now, initiating the story of this journey, sitting in my new home with two dogs, 4 months separated from my wife. I can't help but look back, but I wake up each day wanting to look forward. Divorce complicates everything. Relationships are stretched, families are confushed, friends and acquaintances disappear, finances are turned upside down and faith is challenged.

Now, listening to motivational cd's, counseling with my pastor, doing 1, 2, 5 year plans, tearing them up and starting over. The journey continues.