POETRY BY KATHY BOECHER

As we begin another year, it’s a good idea to look ahead rather than back. What’s gone is gone. What has passed is in the past. Each new day is a second chance for us. We don’t have to wait until January 1, 2027 to make changes, serve God, share His love with others, study His Word and love one another. As I reflect on the last year, I can recall moments of sadness, depression, anxious moments and fear. It was the first year I was labeled a widow. My life became somewhat shadowed and dark for a while. At times I felt lonely, even though I was surrounded by family and friends. I struggled with things I never had to worry about before. I was starting a new life – alone. The blessings were many. The tears fell like raindrops, but I eased out of that mourning fairly quick. Perhaps because my spouse had gone through so much in his last years of living. Knowing that He was face to face with God brought great comfort. Time was filled to the brim with projects, busy time and simply moving forward. I realized the mourning had been going on long before his passing. That’s why the image I chose for today is so poignant. Life is short. We never know when our last breath will be taken. Cherish those in your life with lots of hugs and snuggles. Talk to God on a daily basis. He is always there for us. Take time to say I love you to those you sincerely love. Spend time together – one on one. Press on for the final prize of eternal life. Life on earth is but a whisper. Eternity lasts forever. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Opening up a new year like a gift from one now passed.
Searching for solutions for mistakes that have been cast.
Trying hard to change the errors we have skewed.
Looking up with hope again. Our lives will be renewed.

We try – we fail – we try again to reach our simple goals,
But there is nothing we can do to wash our blemished souls.
There is but one clear answer to the darkness here inside.
Just look to Jesus, God’s own Son who for our sins has died.

He came to live among us – to feel the hurt we know.
He left His throne in heaven to dwell on earth below.
He died, but then He rose again to prove He conquered death.
He never leaves our aching hearts. He’s in our every breath.

Thank you, Jesus, for another year and for your gift of life everlasting. Help me to use that gift to show others the kind of love that only you can give. Amen!