I’m more than a little nervous
of what this new year might hold–
so many uncertainties.

There’s no safety found
in settling into
what I can lose–
my things, my body, my mind, my loves–
though I won’t stop trying,
and they need tending.

It’s good to know
I can’t lose You.
I can’t even lose me
because I’m in You.

And so, while I still have
a comfortable place to live,
a functional body,
a somewhat reliable mind,
people to love,
and work to do,

let me choose to begin each day
in the quiet
with You
where I am
seen, held, loved,
secure and reassured
that whatever happens,
Your door is open
and I don’t have to leave
any part of myself
outside.

Though we are beset with many fears
that cause illness and troubles,
The Beloved is ever ready
to comfort us in our sorrows,
To strengthen us on our soul’s
journey to wholeness, 
The Beloved renews the life of all
who surrender to Love. 
–Psalm 34:19-22, paraphrase by Nan C. Merrill,
Psalms for Praying: An Invitation to Wholeness

Looking for reflection questions for the New Year? Check out these posts: As You Step into the New Year and Count Yourself In.

Credits and References:
Cardinal by Janet H. Used with permission.
As a New Year Begins by Esther Hizsa,2025.
Image of door by Arman Dzaferagic. Used with permission.

© Esther Hizsa, An Everyday Pilgrim, 2025.
The unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without permission from Esther Hizsa is prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used provided there is a link to the original content and credit is given as follows: © Esther Hizsa, An Everyday Pilgrim 2013-2025.  http://www.estherhizsa.com