On this, the seventh day of Christmas, I received a most precious gift, as did you.
I stayed in bed this morning as long as I could, savoring the opening of it the way one unwraps a much-anticipated present—instead of tearing into the wrapping, I glided my metaphorical finger just under point where the paper overlaps and I nudged the tape until it released its hold.
Then I pulled back the wrap and lingered over the newness of it all, inhaling the scent of promise and potential.
It is here.
The new year has dawned like a magnificent sunrise over an expansive ocean, with a freshness of clean linen, the newness of a tightly folded flower bud, and the secrecy of a locked treasure chest. I’m giddy over the endless possibilities of what lies ahead.
In my heart, I’m staring in wonder at a book that contains 365 blank pages, and my heart can only smile.
Right now, the pages are unstained, unblemished in any way. I haven’t hurt anyone with my sarcasm all year. I haven’t said any words I cannot take back. I haven’t judged someone for being different. I haven’t broken a promise to a friend, or missed an opportunity to put aside my work to take a long walk with my husband.
At this moment, anything is possible.
In time, the pages will fill, some with heartache, others with joy and victory. I pray for more of the latter but understand it’s not my decision, just as I also know that, when the year ends, page after page will contain absolutely nothing—a chronicle of hours burned up on mindless tasks.
I resolve to turn the pages more purposefully this year. I pray I can record at the end of each day that I smiled more, laughed more, and loved more on that day’s page than on the one before it. I pray this year my focus is not on how I can better myself, but on how I can make life better for others. Forgive those who hurt me, reignite waning friendships, write encouragement for others. What does that mean, exactly? I have no idea, but I’m sure I’ll learn.
This year I will write a book, see more family, and meet new people. It’s going to be a blast.
How about you? What do you hope to put on your blank pages? Imagine the unimaginable with me, would you? Set your sights on the seemingly unattainable and laugh, because you can do it. Believe and make that first mark on the pristine page.
For no yearning is too big, no dream impossible on this, the first day.
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Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! — 2 Corinthians 5:17
The Portrait Writer 
As always you put it soooo eloquently. Aim high, expect much, do more. You are certainly capable.
Joe
Thanks Joe. If I do accomplish anything, it’s all God’s plan. Best wishes to you and Audrey this year as well.
Thanks for the encouragement for all of us!
Beautifully expressed, Rose. I hope yours is a page-turner.
Thank you! Still waiting to read yours…perhaps this is the year for that, too.