“There are years that ask the questions, and years that answer.”

—Zora Neale Hurston

Welcome to the first working day of 2021.

In all transparency, 2021 has not started out the way we expected, as Matt and I are grappling with the unexpected passing of someone very dear to our hearts. Our friend, Ethan Newman, passed into eternity at 46 years old last week from complications due to COVID-19. Ethan was dearly loved will be greatly missed.

This is not the post I expected to be writing today, but it is the only thing I can find in my heart to say at this moment. Life is full of pain, but it is also full of love. Take time to tell those around you how much you care about them today. If you need to forgive, then forgive.

As Henry Drummond says, “You will find, as you look back upon life, that the moments you have truly lived are the moments you have done things in the spirit of love.”

I don’t yet know whether 2021 will be another year that asks questions or one that brings answers, but I hope that it will be a year filled with the spirit of love. No matter what happens, remember to simply take life one day, one breath, one moment at a time.

Laura Christine Dent is The Durango Wordsmith. As Durango’s premier editor, ghostwriter, and writing coach, she can help you find the words that resonate with your readers.