I hope this finds you happy and well. The past year was a year of milestones. My son turned 15, my Mom turned 80, our speaking and training business is 20 years old, and I turned “half-way to 100.” I spoke to many groups this past year, and look forward to many trips in 2013.

I wish I could tell you about all the wonderful, creative and courageous people I met last year. People like you and I, who have certain challenges (physical, emotional, financial) and still get up and live courageously.

We started the year back at Columbine High School. I always love going back, and love their principal Frank who has been an example of courage and perseverance over the last 13 years. We went to Penn State, to help with the fall-out from the challenges they were facing. I spoke with Child Abuse Prevention folks, people who take care of our elderly, people who run businesses, many teachers, students and educators. Awesome people in the military who have sacrificed for our country. I went to hospitals where people are dedicated to service. An organization called Concerns for Police Survivors (the fifth time in 10 years) where families of fallen police officers come together to support each other.

Every day we are exposed to the negative, what’s not working, what’s wrong. Yet, I hear about wonderful people who, despite tremendous challenges find the courage to be helpful, positive, and supportive. There are many tremendous teachers out there, and the best teachers I have found are kids. Their hearts are open. They don’t hold grudges. They sleep well. They are curious. They laugh.

Many blessings to you all in 2013!