Carmine MARRONE, OMI
As the curtain closes on 2023, what will remain in our memories? Amidst the gloom, there shone a glimmer of hope and love!
As the curtain closes on 2023, what will remain in our memories? It was a year marred by the devastating effects of climate change, and the unexpected eruption of the Gaza-Israeli war overshadowed the prospects of any resolution in Ukraine. Migrants suffered continued tragedies, and global populist and isolationist movements gained momentum. The headlines were filled with darkness, casting a shadow on our hearts.
But amidst the gloom, there shone a glimmer of hope and love! Acts of forgiveness, hidden acts of kindness, and tales of solidarity emerged, often unnoticed. It’s these ordinary people and their love that sustain our world. Their stories, untold yet powerful, weave the tapestry of salvation amidst the chaos.
The transition from one year to another may be a mere social convention, but for us, it’s a chance to pause and reset with renewed optimism. We have two realizations to embrace.
Firstly, time passes swiftly, and we must choose how to spend the precious moments we have left. Let’s fill them with love and life, leaving no room for waste.
Secondly, we can begin anew in the present moment, just as we are. It only takes a determined step to start again, starting small and taking concrete actions. We can do so much good, and many possibilities are waiting to be explored. So, let us be grateful and embrace this fresh start! We are all pilgrims on this journey, and there is a destination from which we can view our experiences from a different perspective.
May Mary, the Mother of God and the Queen of Peace be our guiding light as we embark on this journey. Like a bright star, she will lead us when we feel lost, ensuring we reach our destination. With her company, we wish you a Happy New Year! May each day be filled with the joy of living life to the fullest.
