My dear sister and brother-in-law sent this photograph of a snowbell off their porch. The metal leaf on the end of the chain is swinging in the winter wind. You can almost hear it! The bell's 108 rings accompany the New Years Bonsho Chant:
May the sounding of this bell
dispel the trials and tribulations
that plague all beings.
The New Year begins with every good sound and wish. My New Year's wish for you:
12 months of health and well being.
52 weeks resentment free.
365 days free of racism, consumerism, militarism and indifferentism.
8760 hours paying close attention.
525,600 minutes lived in compassion.
31,536,000 seconds of inner bowing.
Liturgically, the New Year begins with the ancient feast of Mary, Mother of God. My prayer for you: As Bernadette experienced at Lourdes, may you know Mary's smile. May it strengthen or restore you to inner freedom and joy — spark in you all that is deeply human.
