My first child was born on January 25, 2001, a bit past the due date. The whole holiday season had been filled with anticipation and preparation. My father had died six months earlier and we were all experiencing the grief of our first Christmas without him and simultaneously the excitement of the first grandchild on the way!

So that year, and every year since, Liam’s birthday follows on the heels of the holiday, and my January has been occupied with more planning and shopping, more to look forward to!

I understand that many feel relief at the end of the holidays. Getting everything cleaned up and packed away for another year helps us feel in control and ready to address all that comes next, like tax season – whoo hoo!

Some feel let down and a little lost this time of year. The cold and the wet of the southern winter is gloomy and unwelcome. We almost envy our neighbors to the north for the lovely snow covering the ground outside their windows. Almost . . .

Our faith community is a place of light and warmth. Remember that none of us is alone even when we feel a bit lonely. We do have each other. Attending Sunday services is not just for the individual, it is something we do for one another.

Please make the effort to show up for your UUFEC friends! They need to see you!

In wisdom, grace and hope,
Rev. Ruth