Hi! I’ve decided to write a personal letter from me to you only, and I want to start by thanking you for being part of my life. What has brought us together is the fact that there are some values which we both share. Connecting with you has delighted me, and it feels great to be on a team with you. Thank you also for the ways in which you have given to the place where I worship. Your unique personality and your contributions have definitely added to the quality and growth of UUCRT. That being said, and to be totally honest, there are probably some things about you that I don’t agree with. In fact, there may be some things about me that you don’t like also.

This has been quite a year for me. I have had some personal and professional accomplishments and moments of real joy, but I have also experienced loss, anger, as well as failure. How was this year for you?

At this time every year I struggle to identify new year’s resolutions, but again to be honest, I can’t think of any I’ve ever made that have lasted beyond the first quarter. So, I’ve decided this time to focus on some lessons I have learned that have been particularly helpful to me. They include:

• Love is the answer. It is the foundation for understanding each other, for healing and trust, and it empowers individuals and communities.
• When I experience failure, it means there is something I did not see, and I need to find out what it is, then learn to make a change which will prevent it from being repeated.
• Follow indigenous people. They respect and live in harmony with nature, take only what’s needed, and have a mindset of gratitude.
• Big accomplishments always start with small steps and what causes them to be achieved is to never, never give up. The environment I live in is not only my surroundings, but also my thoughts.
• More than anyone else and anything in this world, I have the most control over the person in the mirror.

So, my plan for the new year is to keep these lessons with me and constantly refer to them. I’m sure you have your own way of reminiscing and planning for the new year. Regardless, the big thing we have in common is the strong devotion to the UUCRT. And because of your character, and the love that you bring, it is a supportive and wonderful sanctuary.

In 2025, I need you more than ever.

–Markly Wilson