With the new year having arrived and all the resolutions being made, I thought I’d wander back on over to Japan for my linguistic fun this week; ikigai is a word that was popularized in the 60s in Japan, meaning ‘purpose in life’ or ‘reason for living’ or something along those lines. It seemed appropriate for a time when we’re all examining habits and ideas and ideals we wish to keep and which we wish to break. 

I am sure you heard it too! I have heard many people speculate that, if we are not able to keep the infections numbers under control then the coming year could feel like a 2020 too, instead of 2022! I hope not, but I also recognize the possibility of it happening, if we are unable to get more people vaccinated!

These past two years have been so different from the previous years. We have had to let go of so many rituals we were used and learn ways to connect with family, and celebrate the season of holidays. I remember we used to have a Christmas cantata at church and go out caroling in the evening.