The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

Lookin' For The Good

by Dessa Rodeffer, Quill Publisher/Owner

2 January 2008

We're rushing out of one year into another, and it only seems like yesterday that we were worrying about the new Millenium and the problems it would bring.

Most of what we feared didn't happen. Fears followed the unforgetful 911 which brought about long lines at the gas pump, caused people to lose faith in the stock market, and others to cancel travels.

Doom and gloom rumored about the economy, but economist Paul Zane Plizer reports that the economy only slumped for a few days after 9-11, but the news continued to be fearful. We're drawn to the half empty glass like a magnet, but most of what we fear never happens.

In his Inaugural Address, March 4, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt said during the depth of the Depression: "The only thing we have to fear, is fear itself." He reminded America that most of their problems concerned only "material things".

This year will have its fears, too, but if we choose to look for the positives, we will be satisfied. Look for ways to build on what we have. Be thankful for the good farm prices and that our communities are benefiting from their purchases.

Support those who serve us through business, school or as a good neighbor. Be thankful for those who have overcome fear to risk serving our country, or to bring things like an ethanol plant, a pharmacy, a nursing home, and a united school to our communities, and bring increases in jobs. This year, let us leave our fears behind, and look for all the good in 2008.