The week between Christmas and New Year's always seems different somehow. It is as if time has slowed down.

In Canada, Christmas Boxing Day and New Year's Day are statutory holidays. Given that, many people take the other three days of that work week off to get an extended vacation. 

There are fewer cars on the roads, fewer people on public transit, and society in general seems to have slowed down. The hectic pace we keep for so much of year is somehow absent.

During this week, extra time is spent with family and friends. Books are read. Board games are played.

News outlets do a lot of looking back and a little bit of looking forward - because there isn't much "news" happening. Given that most of what passes for news these days seems to be of the bad news variety, the scarcity of new stories is probably a good thing. 

It is a time perhaps for reflection, and preparation for the New Year. Should I be thinking of what resolutions I should make? What relationships will I need to strengthen?  Are there any I will need to let go? 

What will work or school be like when things start up again? What can I do to make them better? 

I expect a fair amount of upheaval in my life next year. Not necessarily a bad thing, but certain to be stressful. 

But those expectations are based on what life looks like today. Things can change. Some of what I am expecting is pretty much guaranteed. Other things are fluid.  

We can make plans for 2024, but in reality the year is an unknown at this point. Our plans may not mesh exactly with God's plans. 

The one thing we can being is a positive attitude. I'm looking forward to 2024, no matter what it brings 

How about you?