As the end of another year looms ahead
A quick look back to how our soul was fed
The world in turmoil with
violence and fear
As mass shootings happen to loved ones so dear
A war in Ukraine for more than one season
More innocent lives destroyed for no reason
The ongoing pandemic along with RSV and flu
Has darkened the halls of
hospitals too
Supply chain issues kept us from getting
The things we want or need only come with fretting
Some couldn’t find employees while others lost their jobs
Strikes and protest marches
created different mobs
Political unrest around the globe has shown
The heartache of many makes the world groan
Elections throughout the U.S. created much turmoil
At times causing discussions to come to a boil
Yes twenty-twenty-two has been a year like no other
Just don’t forget to love your mother, father, sister, brother
Strength can be found in the ones around us who care
And help to take on those
miseries we share
Being together whether
virtually far or in person near
Hold them in your heart and be not afraid to shed a tear
What is needed the whole world around
Is peace, love, and joy that has no bounds
Feed the hungry, clothe the cold, and nurse the ill
Your actions will surely make hearts and souls filled
Kindness to others in even the tiniest of ways
Can make a difference to
someone’s day
There is hope around every
corner I see
Sharing an unspoken word in a smile has no fee
May the new year come with goodness standing tall
Blessings shared abundantly and love to all
By Kathy Hawkins
Chatfield, Minn.