An end. A new beginning.
For a brief moment we rest in perfect balance, between past and future.

It is now we decide, have the chance to decide.
Let not prejudice, hatred and ignorance triumph. Peace is no further away than our own reflection.
By small every day choices we form this world we live in. Stop, for just a moment, and reflect.

Where there could be anger, offer forgiveness.
Where there is cold, give warmth.
Instead of irritation, show understanding.
Rather than pity, give comfort and strength.

Meet the eyes of a stranger on the street. To those without a smile, give one of your own.

Open your heart. See all the beauty of the world.
Never take anything for granted. Realize the miracle that is existence, allow yourself awe for ordinary things.

Love, and hate will never reign.
Hope is always with you. May all find peace.

Happy New Year.




Title: 2002 - NEW YEAR'S HOPE
Year: 2001-2002

I spent that New Year's Eve alone. I walked out onto the pure, white snow, and saw the brilliant lights of the fireworks paint the white landscape in rainbow colors, and I felt such a bittersweet surge of quiet emotion in my heart. In that moment I only wished the whole world would feel the harmony I felt.
I wished the grieving would find comfort, the hungry have food, the lonely to know love. I wished so burningly that my heart ached, for understanding, for an end to foolish prejudice and superstition, an end to war, starvation and suffering. I wished for people to let love into their hearts, not only for what is close, but for everything and everyone. If everyone cared for everyone else, would there be suffering?
New Year's Eve is the brink of something pure and new. A chance to start over, make the following year better than the last. Forget shallow resolutions - they're moot, and never last. Instead look into the mirror, look into your eyes and promise yourself that this year you will care a little more, help a little more, share a little more.
Love a little more.

Media used: Mechanical pencil, ink, Corel Photopaint 9, tablet.
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