Good bye 2022. The winter solstice has come and gone and our daylight hours are getting longer. 

A new calendar year is beginning with resolutions, hopes and plans. 

Of course, we certainly don't have to wait for a certain date to change the direction of our life. 

The western world uses the Gregorian calendar for both civil and ecclesiastical dating. In 1582, it was instituted by Pope Gregory XIII having 365 days with an extra day every four years (the leap year) unless the year is divisible by 100 but not divisible by 400. It was quickly accepted by Catholic countries like Spain and France but was resisted by Protestant countries who still used the Julian calendar created by Julius Caesar. Most calendars are based on astronomy and our position in the universe.

Every new day, every step, every breath, every moment is a new beginning. Every decision we face is a chance to be a better person, improve our lives and to improve the lives of others. The decisions can be as simple as whether to pick up a piece of litter or walk by it. It may be a decision to end wars, to promote peace, working for the end of hunger or any effort to relieve the suffering of others. The main point is that it's YOUR decision and whether a new year, a new day, or a fleeting moment anytime is a good time to make the world a better place and to become enchanted by nature. 

We wish all of you a very happy new year!