A Christmas Wish

It been quite a year so far, some days have been inspiring, some average, and while others have been days that no one would ever hope to come.  On one hand, we have witnessed breakthroughs in medicine, research, science, exploration, athletics, and extraordinary human endeavors.  Additionally, we have seen the rebound of various exchange markets to new all-time highs, expansion of health care for families, reinvestment in housing, increase business, new products, job creation and social reforms. 

However, on the other hand there have been days in which our hearts have been sadden by so many underling  issues that continue to go unaddressed because of political posturing and indifference.  This includes more families living in poverty, lack of job training, underemployment, high incarceration rates among people of color, increased crime, escalation in gun violence, limits on immigration and drug use.  The entire list of issues that need addressing is alarming and are all worthy of more attention.         

It will be interesting to see where 2014 ranks among other years in the 21^st Century.  Will it be a year measured by what was gained, accomplishments, loses or by what we continued to avoid?  Only time will tell.  What I can say about this year is that it has been quite a journey of unbelievable highs and lows.  From economic growth and advances in science and industry to the spread of worldwide terrorism, new diseases, the use of deadly force by law enforcement of unarmed people, increased public protests, political unrest, expanding wealth gap, and the search for a meaningful dialog about race in America.  This year has been some ride of raw emotions, critical thinking, and flashbacks with historical footnotes.           

But as this holiday season draws to an end, it’s my hope that each of us wish for better days, change of hearts, sober thinking and true peace in our neighborhoods, cities, and nation and around the world.   It will take all of us to make a difference in the upcoming New Year so that the mistakes of 2014 are not repeated and more progress can be made on all fronts.  No Christmas season is complete unless we take the time to remember those who are less fortunate and find ways to become engaged in making life better for all.  We truly live in a land of opportunity and blessings.   What do you think?            

Dr. Andrew Calhoun, can be contacted at andrewiiicalhoun@gmail.com, Twitter #AC53, and Facebook.   You can hear Dr. Calhoun each Sunday at Grace Fellowship Church, 3879 N. Port Washington Rd. Milwaukee 414-265-5546.