Ring In The New

Poor, sadly neglected journal! If you only knew the reasons  that you have lain alone and unused for so long this year past, I think you might forgive us Gibsons, at least a little for our neglect, though perhaps to be more faithful in recording in these pages the joys and blessings in days to come should be one of our Resolutions.

I could tell near a hundred tales of us Gibsons– but instead I’ll just share a beautiful picture I caught sight of just as the old clock in the manor began to ring out the hour that divided yesterday from today, December from January, and the old year from the new.

Just as it began to chime that 12th hour, the great Manor doors swung open and forth from within poured out a near dozen or so beautiful girls, each one who I’ve come to love dearly in the few years I’ve been here. Their faces were bright, and they merrily laughed as they dashed down the steps, ringing silver and golden bells and wishing each other a very happy New Year. They were ringing out the old year and ringing in a new one, a fresh, beautiful, untouched chapter that I have no doubt will hold some of the Gibsons most wonderful moments, just as this year gone by held some of the most beautiful.

I do believe anyone would think it a pretty sight to see so many beautiful and happy faces, but only those who live inside the manor really know what it is that makes these faces as beautiful as they are. I know, because, though perhaps from the side more often than not, I’ve caught glimpses now and again that reveal a beauty deeper than the skin. I’ve seen evidences of sweet victory, of battles won in the heart that no one but those who fought them really can understand. But the strength and beauty of the victory, however secret and unknown its particulars may be to others, cannot help but leave a few traces on the faces.  I’ve seen us all change, mature, grow in the days now past.  I’ve seen this real beauty develop, and more than once my heart rejoiced as I saw little prayers answered.

It has been quite a year for the Gibsons, indeed. We’ve all our share of hardships, confusion, choices, and heartache. We’ve all shed many a tear. But right now, I’m thinking of the beautiful things that God has done in the year past, and the reflection of His goodness that I saw in the lives of these dear girls… and with them, rejoicing in this New Year, knowing Him, who holds each day in His hand.

I’m proud to know these girls, and even more than proud, I’m blessed to call them my friends.

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