Farewell 2024 & Welcome 2025!

December 28, 2024 CCL

Two hands holding sparklers against dusk sky — Photo by Ian Schneider on Unsplash

The arrival of a new year is often a time for looking ahead: making resolutions, identifying needs or values to live by, choosing theme words to give focus, and planning for activities and trips we want to make happen. I intend to do a few of these and enjoy envisioning my life in a larger context than the day-to-day.

I’ve also been thinking back on this year and recalling meaningful events. … Life flies by and many important moments can be forgotten. At 75, I’m very aware of this! I invite you to look back on the year and pick out experiences you want to carry with you. …

To be Hopeful in Bad Times

November 26, 2023 Bryn Hazell

Person in brown sweater, hands cupped together holding pink flower. — Photo by Ester Marie Doysabas on Unsplash

“To be hopeful in bad times is not just foolishly romantic. It is based on the fact that human history is a history not only of cruelty, but also of compassion, sacrifice, courage, kindness.  What we choose to emphasize in this complex history will determine our lives.” …

A Celebration of Needs-Consciousness!

September 11, 2023 Bryn Hazell

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash: Closeup of colorful painted rocks - blue HOPE rock center. — Photo by Nick Fewings, on Unsplash

These past few years I’ve noticed more people in the media talking about people’s values and needs—and I’m feeling pretty excited and encouraged with that awareness. To be clear, I hear plenty of labeling and name calling too, and yet I want to notice and appreciate comments that are less judgmental.

I’ve been hearing more exploration of viewpoints with the focus on concerns and values. I’m remembering a top public health official during the pandemic talking about people who weren’t taking the vaccine, wearing masks, or were against the closure of schools, etc. …