As I sit here looking at this blank page, I find myself asking “Didn’t I just write my holiday message a few months ago? How is it possible that another year has past?”
Whether I
believe it or not, the reality is that 2014 is indeed coming to an end very
soon and as I ponder the events of the past 12 months, I have to say, maybe
that’s for the best.
For on
both a personal and global level, there have been many things that occurred this
year which found me slack-jawed, staring in disbelief, or crying over yet
another change or loss.
Senseless
deaths dominated the headlines, with brutal acts of terror occurring around the
world and even in “our own backyard” with soldiers and police gunned down on
Canadian soil. “This is Canada, those kinds of things don’t happen here”, sadly no longer rings true.
We lost Robin Williams, who was legendary for making us laugh out loud, but
could not do the same within himself. It
still seems surreal that he is gone and by his own doing, when it appeared he
had so much to live for.
What
should have been a routine surgery, unexpectedly took the life of
comedian Joan Rivers, who I’m sure walked right up to St. Peter at the Pearly
Gates, somewhat pissed off that she had arrived there and asked “Can we talk?”
We said
goodbye to my aunt, Connie Farquharson, a remarkable woman whose influence and
presence continue to be a part of Scribbles.
I, the guy
who requires sedation and a support team whenever I relocate, found myself
moving not once, but twice, with my stay at one place lasting a mere 2 months
(the banging and tapping sounds just made it seem longer.)
And as
usual, I continued coping with chronic pain, depression and anxiety, all of
which have had their share of outstanding moments.
“Gee, was
the entire year all gloom and doom Ken?”
Of course
it wasn’t.
For the more horrible and unbelievable all the “bad stuff” seemed to
be, the more amazing and touching all the “good stuff” was.
I have
always been thankful for the great number of close friends in my life. This
year my friends were there for me so many times. I shudder to think where I
would be without your support and if my back was in better shape, I’d bow in
front of you, lifting my arms up & down, while chanting “I’m not worthy, I’m
not worthy”.
You obviously
thought otherwise as you helped me out time and time and time again, in ways
that still amaze me and blow my mind. What did I do to deserve such kind, caring
friends? I truly don’t know, but I appreciate it more than I could ever put into
words....and for someone who is usually long-winded, that’s actually really saying
a lot!
There are
many of you whose holidays will be quite different this year, some in good
ways, others not-so-good. My wish is
that each and every one of you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, no
matter where this season finds you.
This
chapter in our lives known as 2014 will soon be over. 2015 is eagerly waiting
around the bend, sure to be filled with more highs and lows, laughter and
tears.
Here’s to
us continuing to ride through it together.
Happy
Holidays,
Ken Leavoy
Editor