January 1, 2019: Happy New Year!

The year 2018 has ended, and a new year begins.  I had resolved to write and upload a new book review for each day of the year.  What did I learn?

1) It's hard to keep up! 😐

By October, I discovered I just did not have enough entries in my reading diary to continue recommending a book every single day.  It's not that I hadn't read well over 365 books; it's just that, for every 4 or 5 books I've read, there might be only one that stands out enough to highlight.

Additionally, following a return from a restful and wonderful vacation in France's Loire Valley in early October, I felt discouraged.  I returned to the US finding the political landscape as divisive and dangerous as ever.  I struggled with even picking up a book and reading.  A friend suggested Wendell Berry.  When I read the first story, which was about forgiveness and redemption, I felt hopeful (see entry for Nov 22) and started writing reviews again - not daily, but every day or two.  I'll continue to do so as I read new books that warrant notice.

2) I need to focus less on the things I can't control, and more on the Lord, who has all things in his control.

As we start 2019, I pray for justice and respect for all in our world.