As The Year Winds Down...

As 2010 leaves us and 2011 begins I suppose it's natural for each of us to reflect on exactly what kind of a year we have had.

Years, months, days, hours and minutes create perpetual change. Some events bringing elation and joy, others deep sorrow and grief.

For many of us we have rejoiced at weddings and birthdays and cried tears of sadness at our loved ones sickness or loss.

But as each year advances, we learn, we change, and hopefully life gives us wonderful opportunities to grow.

2010 was full of changes for myself and many of my friends. As one would expect, life will constantly pose challenges to navigate and with hard work and an attitude of never accepting defeat, the potential of rewards are great. As I look back on my personal year of growth and discovery, I feel a sense of accomplishment at another dozen books behind me, and of the new fans I have met who have become close friends. The affection and loyalty of some people is a thing of wonder to me. While in my life I have seen the dark side of people, greed, selfishness and each of seven deadly sins, on the positive side, there are some pretty spectacular individuals who have come into my life this year, who I can't appreciate enough.

I suppose if we can look in the mirror and say to ourselves, we did the best we could do and didn't hurt others in the process then we have done very well indeed.

Though the year 2010 has been topsy turvy in politics and war, I think I can leave that summary to those who spout the news. We all know who did their best and who did their worst for the freedom and civil rights of individuals.

As the year closes, I think all I would like to say is Thank You. Thank you to the many people who email me, connect with me on a very human level, and who have touched my life deeply, though they may not know.

I wish everyone who reads this, a year of peace, promise, and hope. Because without it, life is too hard to tackle.

Happy 2011.

Be safe out there in an insane world.
G.A