Self-absorption is a sin of conceit, I think, and so is gloom, and today, I am taking the advice of Sally from Phoenix and taking a day off from worry. I try not to present a false picture of life on the farm, so present the bad news with the good stuff, but I do think in these times there is a tendency to take ourselves seriously, and for some to become addicted to worry and fear. Sadly, fear is more compelling than joy, and drowns out peace and happiness.
  Sally writes that despite some troubles, it has been a good year for her and her family, and she hopes she has shared this good fortune with others in every way that she can.
  “We are looking forward to a good year ahead and have great hope for the future for the country. Things can be bad, scary, worrisome, and even frightening, but it is still a beautiful world and hopefully everyone will find a little bit of joy tomorrow,” she writes.
  Her wish for me, she added, was to have a joyous and peaceful day, and to feel good about my life, and about my stories, journals and photos.
  I’m with Sally. For me, this is a beautiful world and I will seek out joy tomorrow, and when I find it, I will pass it along. Sally is a wise person.