Congratulations! We crossed the finishing line in 2021 by a split second, and we look forward to 2022 with refreshed hopes and courage. Keep in mind the hope we had in our hearts as we waited for 2022. Now that we have started the year, we need to keep our eyes fixed on that goal. Feel that same passion! Pope Francis reminds us “to look at the past with gratitude, the present with passion and the future with hope”.
That one second when we crossed from 2021 to 2022 made a difference for each of us and for our world. That one second brought new hope and now we have to keep this flame of hope alive! Deep down in our hearts, we know that everything depends on our attitude and positivity. The reality is, with or without COVID-19, when we experience the vicissitudes of life and we weather the storms, many of us will come out stronger!
1st January 2022 was also World Day for Peace, and Pope Francis outlined the three paths for building a lasting peace for ourselves and the future generation.
- Intergenerational Dialogue that promotes respect between the young and old. We need to build a new alliance between the young and elderly to address the problems of isolation and self-absorption heightened by the coronavirus pandemic. The young need the wisdom and experience of the elderly, and the elderly need the support, affection, creativity, and dynamism of the young.
- Investing in Education that is accompanied by the promotion of a culture of care. Having a common language helps break down barriers and build bridges. Through education, we can promote integral human developments and help to shape free and responsible people.
- Improvement of Labour Conditions and helping the young find stable employment. We are also reminded to protect all vulnerable people including those in essential services and those struggling to find jobs. We must also protect all migrant workers and work with agencies that can help build a system to protect the vulnerable and marginalised.
Let us do our part to help build a world where we can protect and promote all men, in good times and in bad. When we can do this, we build a more caring and peaceful society, family, and self.
May God bless you and your loved ones with His peace, joy, and hope. Best wishes for the New Year 2022!