RISING ABOVE SETBACKS AND CHALLENGES, WITH SO MUCH GRATITUDE AND JOY!

By Sofya Stearns

I’m not going to lie, 2025 was a challenging year for me, health-wise. It started off with two torn shoulders followed by physical therapy, knee surgery followed, again, by physical therapy and I have now undergone a toe surgery, which again, will be followed by PT.

However, what gets me through the pain and being homebound are my family and friends, laughter, and flowers. Crutches or a walker, boot or a splint; we all gotta eat so why not be merry? In my situation, all three challenges were mild setbacks and I’m grateful for them. I do have to add, during the homebound days and moments free from excruciating pain, those intervals always made me realize that there is going to be a light at the end of my tunnel, and how blessed and gratified I am. In these moments, I remember that there are people, families, who might not see the light at the end of the tunnel; their recovery and outcome might not be as easy as mine.    

I’d like to suggest to all of us: let’s begin to celebrate the holiday season, not tomorrow, not in a week, not after we decorate our Christmas tree or Hanukah Bush, not when we take our first sip of eggnog or bite of latkes, not when, but today. I mean it! And why not? Are there any precise rules about when we can start? Absolutely NOT! Because Christmas and Hanukkah or any holiday are not only about faith, but also about our state of mind and soul, about leading a good life full of love, compassion; being surrounded by family and friends and having a full understanding of gratitude. Enjoying every second spent around the dinner table, making jokes, telling funny stories, eating pizza or sushi or any favorite food we like with good wine (for us) and hot chocolate (for the kids), listening and dancing to holiday music without waiting for the official day is what life is all about.

Today, my dear ladies, my readers and followers, let’s wish each other a merry Christmas and happy and healthy New Year!

Cheers! Until next month! Until 2026!

La Dolce Vita!!