Guest Essay

By Cynthia Chadwick-Granger

SACO – As I sit in my home looking across the living room, I cannot miss the large wooden sign leaning on the fireplace with large, beautiful green letters spelling the word “ HOPE”.

I had seen this decorative piece and fell in love with it.

I felt I needed to display it where I could see it everyday. It reminds me that is has been a very tough year for all of us who have survived, but even harder for those who have lost loved ones.

Yet, we all have something in common – “HOPE” – a desire for things to change for the better. And we want that “Better” very much!

So don’t feel hopeless and discouraged. Instead, encourage and inspire others to do acts of kindness. And remember to take deep breaths, look around you and take it all in.

Listen to your favorite music and dance if you want to.

It’s okay to say “Good morning” to a stranger… make someone smile!

Spend time with your children or a friend. Walk your dog. Hug your spouse or partner. Tell a story.

And always remember to laugh!

Most of all, never give up, for there is always “HOPE”, and I promise you that better days are coming . . .

Cynthia Chadwick-Granger is the marketing manager for Bay Area Title in Portland. She is also a wedding officiant at Vows for You by Cynthia. She can be reached at vowsforyou@maine.rr.com or 207-408-2329.