Publishers Editorial
(by) Patricia Farris News Review Publisher
At the beginning of a new year, we have a strong sense of turning the page to a new leaf.
When the new year begins I am reminded of the poem,
A New Leaf
by Helen Field Fischer:
He came to my desk with a quivering lip
The lesson was done.
“Dear Teacher, I want a new leaf,” he said,
I have spoiled this one.”
I took the old leaf, stained and blotted,
And gave him a new one all unspotted,
And into his sad eyes smiled,
“Do better, now, my child.”
New Year’s Resolutions are made and often soon broken. Resolutions like losing weight, cutting out fast foods, etc. These are mostly related to an improved lifestyle.
I am thinking instead of not only what to refrain from but how to add something to our lifestyle that would benefit us and today’s culture.
There is so much division, hatred and despair in our country today. Perhaps we could help bring a balance to that dark side by spreading cheer and kindness. One of the first scripture verses we teach our children at an early age is “Be kind, one to another.”
A kind word goes a long way. “Pass it on.”
It was President George Bush (41) who urged the country to be “a little kinder and a little gentler.”
We can set the tone early in the day in our own households with kind words to our children and spouses that will help set their day on a happier course.
I am reminded of a song of earlier days, “You Light Up My Life.” Kind words do lift spirits turning a sense of dismay into a sense of joy and happiness.
Washington Irving envisioned it like this, “A kind heart is a fountain of gladness making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles.”
We just celebrated a season of love, joy and peace during the Christmas season. Let’s be mindful of that season and continue celebrating that spirit as we enter into this new year.