A few words from Brian . . .

Happy New Year! Its 2012.

I no longer have the youthful giddiness of looking forward to the New Year. No I’m not putting down folk’s exuberance for the new. No, I’m not “dissing” people’s hopes and dreams. I’m just saying that at age 54 I have a slightly different view of life now . . . my life . . . and our purpose on this earth.

I stopped making resolutions back in my late teens - back then as they are now, New Year resolutions are more often just empty words… promises to self that are quickly broken, forgotten.

However, year after year I “do” find reasons to live and live life more passionately. I don’t make promises to do something but I intentionally seek meaning in every day. I do reflect on where I have been and where I want to go – but most importantly, I focus on where I am now. Yeah that’s it - being present. Recognizing and appreciating where I am now. Now is the only thing that matters. I have made plans and preparations for the future, insurance, retirement etc. Those are wise things to tend to or have in place. Nevertheless, right now is the only thing I possess.

In this month’s issue of Inspire! Magazine we share a lot about being present and the things that really matter today. I share some of my personal thoughts about Diet and Fitness.

"Peace, Be Still" written by Dr. Temille is part of her Mindful Meditations by the Red Sea series. She gives us special insights on being present and a thought out basic primer on “mindfulness”.

A new contributing writer Cynthia Benin Williams Lemus shares her Travel story in “Central America’s Jewel, Costa Rica”. All I can say about her article is WOW Travel! The world is truly waiting for you!

Margo Scott Candelerio, who was our featured author last month in our Books of Note section is also an accomplished artist and photographer. This month we feature some encouraging words from her as well as a few art submissions.

Larry Smith is an Educational Consultant and has something to say in his piece "Restoring Our Voice" about the legacy of education we are leaving behind.

Kathy Geathers offers her New Year observations and gives some great advice for financial well-being.

Ava Brown is also a new contributor and she shares some fabulous home decorating ideas and tips in our Entertaining section, especially those bargains you can pick up right after the holiday season.

The staff and I just can’t stop talking about Steve Jobs. He is so interesting to read about whether you liked him or not. We included another perspective on him written by Allura Joy in an online piece she entitled: “What Steve Jobs Has Taught Us About Living Life To Its Fullest”

Many thanks to Yolanda McCoy for her keen editor's eye.

Peace and blessing to all . . .

Brian A. Thomas M.S.
Publisher