I am thankful for the hundreds of conversations I have had with people in the past year. These connections are where I find hope. I am a talker and a storyteller. I am a listener and am ever curious about other’s lives. I love your stories and perspectives on life.  

Whether a planned conversation or a spontaneous chat, my favorite interactions are when we end up on some random topic that neither of us expected. In a world full of conflict, I am deeply grateful for the many ways you share your heart and thoughts with me.  You have shared how you solve problems, search for solutions, and find joy. We compare notes on building community and making a difference. I have known some of you my whole life, others I met this month.  

You are quirky. The things that bring you joy are myriad: cats and turquoise, music and perfectly decorated bathrooms. You are annoyed – by other people mostly – but also about any number of problems. You are scared or angry, depending on your temperament, by the state of the world. You love your family, your pets, children, and trees. Your children, family, and pets annoy you sometimes. You do what you can to make the world a better place and wish you could do more.  

You shared so much with me during chats this past year. Conversations like these bring me joy and encourage me to think more deeply. Individually and in workshops, I have talked with hundreds of people this year. If you are one of those people, thank you for the chance to connect. If we haven’t had a chance to talk, I hope that you join a training or webinar next year so that we can say hi.  

My plan this coming year is to continue to chat, to speak and to listen. I enjoy the conversations we have and all that I learn from them. I will continue to write and share my thoughts with the aim to spread hope. 

Peace,

Laura