I’ve attended a fair amount of holiday gatherings over the past month. Oftentimes the conversations were pleasant – but could be defined as surface level, contrived, and trite. I found those conversations to be tolerable and, at times, it was hard work to keep them going.
There were also conversations where people were vulnerable. They talked about the passing of friends and family members, relationship issues, problems at work, or their despondent feelings about the current state of the world.
Those were the exchanges that touched me and got me thinking.
Not because I am a negative person or because I have answers. Quite the opposite. The conversations were a reminder about how life is short; about how I just want to slow down and be more present and compassionate with the people in my life. We will not always have each other.
I was also reminded to say yes to the simple moments in life … and then to slow down and savor them. Because life is so short and so beautiful.
These are the moments that shaped my new year’s resolutions. To be more present and compassionate, and to slow down and savor simplicity.
What are yours?
Wishing you all the best in 2025!
Barbara
Out Takes
I am grateful for your comments about my Sunday memos. Some have been funny, insightful, or inquisitive. Sometimes I learn from your responses. I thought it would be fun to share some of these, so I am adding this Out Take section.
Last week’s memo about the Social Security Fairness Act got a lot of comments! Here are a few:
- “It’s been pretty unfair for a lot of folks… only SOME public servants are affected. CALSTRS has the social security offset, but CALPERS did not.” (NB)
- “That’s amazing for us!” (MB)
- “Yahoo! This has bugged me for twenty years.” (DS)
As an update, the Senate did pass the bill, and we are waiting for Biden’s signature. Beverly pointed out that benefits will be payable for retirees retroactive to December 2023. (Thank you, Beverly. I did not know that!)
Social Security said this may be a slow process. You can check out the Social Security website for updates and more information. https://www.ssa.gov/
December 29, 2024
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