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Another year has passed, and 2020 looms ahead. What will I do differently in this pristine New Year? I’m reminded of the words from “The Night Before Christmas” that read, “the moon on the breast of the new fallen snow gives a luster of midday to objects below.” In my mind’s eye, 2020 is as beautiful and without blemish as this word picture.

My heart fills with anticipation and joy at the mere thought of a fresh start once again. Each year when I take stock of the 365 days behind me I see mistakes, but I choose not to dwell on them, because I also see victories.

2019 has been a year of great change for me, but the change has been most welcome. In January, I had my left hip replaced. Anyone who says major surgery is not a big deal is either lying or has never experienced it, but in retrospect this was a wonderful new beginning for me. I faced my fear and pushed through the difficulties of recovery.

Then in July I had my right hip replaced. It sounds so easy as I write it, but without my faith and the many prayers sent up on my behalf I would have been looking forward to a 2020 filled with pain. I only found the courage to do what needed to be done to restore my health by crying out to God for strength.

He is such a faithful Father, and healed me from my disabling arthritis, but also from the fear that had me bound, as well. So this year, I look forward to so many things that were beyond my reach just one short year ago, and I challenge each of us to take a step out of our comfort zones to do the things that will enable us to live fuller and more meaningful lives.

I have heard it said that those who fail to plan plan to fail, so I’m getting my plan ready to make this a wonderful and memorable year. In 2018, my son, Ryan, asked me to visit him in San Francisco. I remember his words, “Come on out, Mom, and we’ll ride bikes across the Golden Gate”. The realization that I couldn’t get on a bike anymore is what thrust me on the path of joint replacements. So this year I’ll be taking that trip to San Francisco.

When I talk to my grown children about the choices they encounter along the way, I always remind them that God will give us the desires of our hearts. Not some ridiculous thing of course, but if we look to God as our guide through this life and follow Him with our whole hearts He will mold us into people who desire what He desires.

What could be better? Follow God, and follow the dreams He places in our hearts? I have a feeling 2020 will be a very good year!

Jan Penton Miller can be reached at lilsisjan@yahoo.com.