On some days, I feel the Blues and disconnected from the harsh realities these days. I often wonder, how can I carry on and enjoy life with all its little celebrations? With all the drama and trauma going on at the big stage and small communities, is still worthy of celebrating?
Our family welcomed a new baby, but also honoring the life of a dear loved one we have lost. The successful completion of years of study, a milestone birthday and finally the well-earned retirement. Maybe it’s the new puppy, or just celebrating a long-lasting, deep friendship? There can always be a reason to pause and appreciate what we have in life.
And then, there is the bigger picture. The elephant in the room, very present and weighing heavily on our bodies and minds. The year 2026 is the 250th anniversary of the United States as the world’s longest‑running continuous democracy. But democracy is a team sport.
We The American People have an obligation to protect the Constitution and individual rights, at the same time respect the rights of neighbors, and participate in civic life.
In that sense, the anniversary isn’t just about looking back. It’s a reminder that the work of sustaining something so complex continues into the next year, and the next.