It’s super quiet in the wee hours of the morning. The mist that has overtaken the night, thick with its heaviness and dread, dissipates with each new beam.

Imagine a world a little gentler, brighter and simpler. That’s what God intended. All it takes is a little attention to our center, our core, our soul. It’s easy to get distracted with the lights, whistles and bells. Like with the wrapping paper at Christmas, you look around to view the damage you have done to your credit, family relations, and schedule, and wonder if it was all worth it–the presents, the Amazon wish lists, the glitter, the angels and hope.

For a moment, we get a glimpse of the world as God intended, but then doubt creeps in. Was it worth it? Was it even real? Could that dream become a reality? Could peace be afforded by one little step toward another…that stranger, that foreigner, that unwed mother?

Just ask anyone who has been cleared of cancer, welcomed back into a family, or offered a new job–sometimes the loudest voice speaks from within. “I’m going to do it well this time.” In those thin spaces, when the fog clears, and all is well with your soul, you know what matters. Make it count! Happy New Year!