Hello and welcome to the beginning of the holiday season!

For some, this time of year is a Hallmark movie, complete with cozy sweaters, warm cider, crackling fires and the slightest spice of misunderstanding – just enough to keep the rom-com alive through New Year’s Eve.

For others, it is, well….a slog.

Most of us find it ticks back and forth between the two: with sinks full of dirty dishes interspersed with moments of spontaneous hilarity, petty disagreements broken up by unexpected joy, and love for those around us mixed with thoughts of loved ones no longer with us.

With this in mind, I send along the below poem. One I have always found unexpectedly moving, and which reminds me to be grateful for all that occurs—no exceptions.

“I asked You, God, for strength that I might achieve,

         I was made weak that I might humbly learn to obey;

I asked for health that I might do greater things,

         I was given infirmity that I might do better things;

I asked for riches that I might be happy,

         I was given poverty that I might be wise;

I asked for power that I might be given the praise of men,

         I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God;

I got nothing that I asked for,

         But everything I hoped for;

I am among all men most richly blessed.”

                                    Prayer found on the body of a Confederate Soldier

With thanks to all of you for all your comments, advice, and encouragement throughout the year.

I am blessed to know you.

Frances