Monday's Musings: Ready for A Fresh Start in 2016?

by Mary Denman     @MaryDenman

I'm so glad a new year has dawned. 

I'm ready for a fresh start.

While the hardest year of my life by far was 2013, 2015 was a bit challenging as well. 

We started 2015 with my daughter having double knee surgery in February to deal with the long-standing pain in her knees. Instead of getting better, they got significantly worse. After months of suffering, her doctor finally referred her to another specialist. 

Then we got a Dr. who was able to understand the underlying issue and give us a diagnosis that dealt with the problem. Her knee caps weren't aligned properly. So, we scheduled her next two surgeries for October and December of 2015. 

Hubby had shoulder surgery in between hers in November. (They're both doing well and recovering nicely.) 

So why am I glad to see 2015 go and 2016 start?

Because it feels like a fresh start to me. A chance to take a breath and get excited about life again. 

I know I'm not unusual. Lots of people are relived when a tough year ends and a new year begins. 

Why is that? 

I believe it's because we need hope. 

Hope of a fresh start. 

Hope of a breather. 

Hope of change. 

That's why so many people start new year's resolutions. It's a great time to evaluate the old and prepare for the new. 

I feel that way. 

But then it hit me, why do I have to wait 365 days for a fresh start? 

I don't. Neither do you. 

Your fresh start begins when you open your eyes each morning. 

I love the verses in Lamentations 3:22-23:

22Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,

for his compassions never fail.

23They are new every morning;

great is your faithfulness.

God's love was there for me the morning after my mom passed away in 2013. And he's been with me every day since then.

He's gotten me through the hard times, like watching my girl suffer this past year. He taught both of us through that trial. He's given us grace, strength and peace. 

And hope of a new day. A new year. 

So tonight, when you hit the pillow, look back and see how God showed you his love. Know that when you awake, whether in the middle of the night or in the early morning light, that God's love and compassion will be there with you. 

Ready to get you through the day. 

Ready to give you a fresh start. 

Are you glad to see 2015 to go or was it a great year for you? What are you looking forward to today or this year? What are some goals you have?

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