Very pleased 2008 is about over.

This was not the best of years for most Americans due to the collapse of the stock market and the Banking system. Many have lost their jobs this year and many are afraid they may lose their jobs in 2009. This is not a good way to live and is very stressful on the body and the mind.

2008 started off very sad for my wife and me, as her Mom passed away on New Years morning. It has been a difficult year with the loss of a family member. We were lucky to have spent the time we did with her these past 13 years. We were also lucky that we were not affected by the economy but very aware that many others are. We changed our giving to charities this year to include our local Food Bank and other human services non-profits that help the homeless. There seems to be a great human need this year and while we all have our stories, it is best to focus on our being luckier than many.

In that sprit, I wish everyone reading here a very Happy New Year and a world filled with more compassion, hope and peace. And it wouldn't hurt if the stock market gained back some of its losses to make more people whole financially.