Simple Freedom?

I sit here this morning in a beautiful house, knowing I can go anywhere and do just about anything I want and not having to worry about a job or food or clothing or that roof over my head, and I am stopping to be pointedly grateful for so many reasons.  Not only was I lucky enough to be born in America, to have a fantastic family, to find my passion in life and do it for a living, to have a long list of wonderful people in my life, throughout my life, to be strong enough to work through difficulty now and then, and be able to find the bright spot in every, single day...and the list goes on and on, I must say.  If I tried to list everything, I'd never finish this entry, and people would stop reading.  What puts this all in true perspective is realizing how many people do NOT have what I have, not even close, and those people are surviving and working and believing and depending on those who do have to, at the very least, give a flying fig about them.  Oh, they don't usually ASK for help or for  recognition or for anything extraordinary.  All they want is a chance, a chance to work, to care for their families, to have a little nest egg, to feel secure about their future because they're doing the right thing.  I'm not being political here.  I'm just being a decent human being and stopping to think for just a moment, especially about those who are making the effort and still suffering.  I do my little part in my corner of the world.  I can do more, and I will.  Imagine the difference we could make if we all did a little bit to help.  Remember, moral support, compassion, and encouragement can change a life too.  I know I'm not telling you anything you do not know.  Most of the peeps who read my blog know and do and care.  Spread the word, my friends, spread the word.  

A new year, eh?

Where the heck have I been?  Well, I'm happy to report that I've been enjoying myself.  Oh, I have had plenty to say especially in the form of fun and gratitude and blessings and sheer amazement at my good fortune.  Did I inherit or win a million bucks?  Much better than that (although that would be very sweet).  I'm alive and kicking and already enjoying a new year.  The holidays were glorious, filled with family and friends and even the sights and sounds of Hawaii.  See what I mean?  Soooooo, I thought I'd just shout out to those of you who have been waiting patiently for me to post again.  Shall we take on 2012 with great relish and hope and belief in the opportunities it will no doubt offer us?  I know you guys.  You're already there, soaking it in and watching for the next chance to celebrate something, big or little, stunning or mild, grand or unnoticed by anyone but you.  Yeah, we have the secret of great wealth, the kind no one can steal, and now we have a brand new year to compound interest.  Can I get an "Amen?"