The words from the John Lennon song “and so this is Christmas and what have you done?” I start thinking about them every year at this time.

Coming to the end of another year. I don’t have many regrets. I think the ones I do have can be addressed in the year to come.

Years back I made myself a promise to see more sunrises and sunsets. Why not? The show is free and just being outside or near something that beautiful makes you take a breath and be still for a moment.

This year I actually enjoyed finding gifts for my kids. They may not care for them, but they were chosen with care and thought.

We have more family around this year to celebrate the holidays with.

I can remember walking into the warm kitchen at my grandparents’ home. Being hugged by Aunts and cousins. I never really wanted those hugs, but as I get older I understand why they were given with such enthusiasm. It is nice to give and get a hug; it makes you feel part of the family.

I have learned lots and lots of computer stuff this year. LOTS! Some of it is amazing, some of it is bewildering. I would leave the office and my head would be loaded with new information. Some of the things I still haven’t used. Some of them like zoom calls and team meetings still make me a little nervous. But all in all, there is usually someone in those meeting much more uncomfortable than you are.

I have learned never take anyone for granted. Never forget to give a compliment or a thank you to someone. Always let the person with just a few items slip in ahead of you at the store, my time now, is much less rigid. They may have somewhere to be.

I have tried to be helpful. I have tried to anticipate the needs of others and do or give whatever it takes to make their life easier. Don’t say “let me know if you need something”. Say “I will make you supper, do you want this or that.” Or show up at their door with something that can be used at any time. Soup and tissues for a cold or flu, can be handed in a door with very little contact. But they are priceless to someone who is sick.

So ask yourself right now. What have I done? If nothing comes to mind right away. You have some work to do. Start today. Not tomorrow. Make a phone call. Make some cookies.

You know we are all in this together. Together we can do many, many good things. Happy New Year.