Happy New Year

Photo by The Man

Happy New Year to you my loyal followers, all 20 of you! And to those of you who read my blog but for whatever reason are a little reluctant to 'follow' on line. But that's okay with me. I know sometimes it takes courage to contribute to a blog ... been there done that and I'm now wearing the tee shirt (medium size) to prove that! Anyway, let me wish you all health, happiness and prosperity for 2012. I do enjoy and value your comments when one of you stops by to say hello. Thank you for taking the time.

I must admit I've really enjoyed the interaction on line with my blogging buddies and I feel I've learned lots too. I've been impressed by many of your writings and saddened too by one or two challenges you have encountered during the course of the year. I've enjoyed celebrating some of the successes you've celebrated  too, like the launch of a new book or having a story published or quite simply acquiring a new reader or two! It's been interesting to note how some blogging communities are very active and very supportive to the 'newbie bloggers' among us. (I'm still learning lots about blogging!). I guess the real power lies in the 'engagement' part of the process. I know the best conversations are those which are 'two- way' ... and I understand that sometimes it feels a little different with on-line conversations. Off line I can easily talk for Ireland ... sometimes I have!  On-line, there's no body language to read, facial expressions to see or instant responses. Sometimes there is a reluctance to engage, to offer opinion, to comment or to reply. However, I do encourage a little persistence and courage on your part and who knows what you might learn in 2012. Who knows what difference this might make for you and your fellow bloggers? Go on, I invite you to make 2012 your 'engagement year of all things new' and see what you learn and who you meet along the way.

Happy New Year.

Resolve to make at least one person happy every day, and then in ten years you may have made three thousand, six hundred and fifty persons happy, or bightened a small town by your contribution to the fund of general enjoyment.

Sydney Smith