Steps in a long journey

late 2015: a colorful sunset

Photo by J. Harrington

As the sun begins to set on 2015, we'll continue our thoughts during this quiet time of year. Perhaps we're becoming a little less like Eeyore, but these days we seem to be noticing more of what we consider good news. Those who know us also know how deeply to discount the chance we've become Pollyanna-ish. Plus, we have no expectation that the news will ever be all, or even mostly, good, but, it would lift our spirits a considerable amount to have a better ratio of good to standard [bad] news. Here's some of the positives we've found recently to give you a sense of what we're talking about:

• Recognition that economic development and environmental protection can go together in:
  Minnesota and
  Canada


• News media providing context in:
  Minnesota, and
  England


• The chance that we may yet be able to eat mostly "real food" someday (by the way, Michael Pollen's In Defense of Food movie is on at 8 PM Thursday on TPT) and, last but not least (to me)


• Hope that I may yet have time to write enough good poetry to get a book published (if I can also tap the skill and the muse)

If we combine these items with the Vikings making it into the playoffs last night, we could start to get downright giddy for the New Year, even before the bubblies been opened.

     THE GOOD NEWS:
Poetry by Thich Nhat Hanh

The good news

they do not print.

The good news

we do print.

We have a special edition every moment,

and we need you to read it.

The good news is that you are alive,

that the linden tree is still there,

standing firm in the harsh winter.

The good news is that you have wonderful eyes

to touch the blue sky.

The good news is that your child is there before you,

and your arms are available:

hugging is possible.

They only print what is wrong.

Look at each of our special editions.

We always offer the things that are not wrong.

We want you to benefit from them

and help protect them.

The dandelion is there by the sidewalk,

smiling its wondrous smile,

singing the song of eternity.

Listen. You have ears that can hear it.

Bow your head.

Listen to it.

Leave behind the world of sorrow,

of preoccupation,

and get free.

The latest good news

is that you can do it.

********************************************
Thanks for visiting. Come again when you can.
Please be kind to each other while you can.