 Hello. To all my family and friends around the world, it's time to say aloha, au revoir, au videszain, sayonara, arrivederci, d'osvedania, jaillan, to 2017. With what we've seen of weather disasters, economic problems, and difficulties in our cities, there are likely many of us who would say good riddance to 2017. But let's not forget some of the good news, such as the encouraging stirrings and revolutions for democracy that we're seeing in some countries. There are also studies indicating that violence is generally decreasing in tangible ways. And in the debates and protests around the globe, I have been struck by the tremendous heart evident in people. In light of such things, along with what hopes we still have within us, maybe we can begin to see in this past year something of the promise of good that's already here. Sure, hope isn't enough to help someone recover after a disaster. But let's consider where things can go when we see our lives from the standpoint that we control our own destiny and we can discover the true meaning and purpose of our lives. This year has had its challenges for me, including my personal health challenges, but it then recently occurred to me that I was overly swayed by the bad news going on and not swayed enough by the promise of what I was able to discover in all the good around me. This realization was a powerful turning point for me, from which I went forward and found ways to make a difference in my year, and I would like to think in the lives of those around me. It's in this spirit that I've thought of the past year as really having been full of promise. A positive view of things makes all the difference. It's this lens that enables us to stay above the fray, harvest the good of the present, and so best prepare for tomorrow. Are we waiting for good to come along from somewhere else? Are we focused on ways we haven't seen the good we want? Or rather, are we trying to see more of the good that is already around us? Truly, the good that's in store for us is not something that's yet to be created. It's ready for us to see, take hold of, and do what is best for ourselves and others around us. We're learning about what works in life, and maybe plenty about what doesn't work, and there's enough going on to suggest that we'll continue to gain in our role as good people doing the right thing to make our world a better place. So my friends, I look forward with great anticipation to 2018. For me, a year of promise. For you and for the world, because the beginning starts with you and with me. Looking forward to hearing from you, please be safe, and may God bless you with good health and the spirit of giving. Aloha and Happy New Year from the Kazimurskis and Seymour's World.