The year began with hope for many,and now it draws to a gentle close.

The year began with hope for many, and now it draws to a gentle close.

Between the first step and the final mile, life tested us in ways both seen and unseen.

There were highs that lifted our spirits, and lows that quietly shaped our faith—

personal battles, professional storms,yet through it all, we were not alone.

Today, our hearts find many reasons to thank the Lord:

for keeping our children safe in His care,for granting them wisdom, strength, and grace;

for holding us adults together,

even when patience slipped and nerves wore thin.

There were victories we celebrated aloud,

and silent joys we kept close to our hearts—moments of achievement, laughter, and love that made the journey worthwhile.

So despite every trial we have known, let us pause and choose gratitude.

Let us lift our thanks to our Heavenly Father and seek His favor upon our lives.

As we step into the coming year, may we walk wrapped in His grace,guided by His mercy, and strengthened by faith for all that lies ahead.