Happy New Year

This is most definitely the time of year when people take time to remember the things they are, or should be, thankful for.

I am most thankful for my wife, who honors me and affirms me and inspires me more than words could ever express sufficient appreciation. We spent New Year's day with her entire family. What an amazing group of people. It is truely an honor to be a part of that family and to be welcomed and accepted by them.

I thank God for the blessings in my life (which have nothing to do with money or possessions).
To my amazingly wonderful wife - thank you, Oh Catherine, My Catherine, for being who you are and for the love and warmth I now feel inside since I met you and fell in love with you.

There are a lot of people that are searching for happiness in their lives. I believe we should strive to have joy, rather than happiness. With true joy, happiness will follow. You may not always feel happy, but you can always know joy. Huge difference. Happiness is a feeling (and is temporary), Joy is something you just know (and lasts forever). The Bible says that God desires us to know joy. It doesn't say that God wants us to be happy, it tells us that we are to be joyful!

Without realizing it, my wife, Catherine, has taught me the difference between joy and happiness. Being with her causes me happiness, yes, but it wasn't until I met her that I knew the meaning of real joy.

God Bless you and may you have a great 2006.