Beech Tree News Network

I recently watched an ABC show that “reviewed” 2023 – basically an editorial of events during the year. This caused me to think about some things that I noted through the past year. I’ve broken my thoughts into categories below.

International – So many wars and disasters occurred in 2023. In Matthew 24:6-7 (NIV) Jesus stated: “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.” During 2023, the United States and its people provided aid to the world for various reasons. We do more than most countries, I believe.

National – Stalemate has been defined as a situation in which neither group involved in an argument can win or get an advantage and no action can be taken. In the past year, it seemed that our legislature often reached that point. Although I like to think of myself as a middle-of-the-road person, I may not be since I now wonder if our political system would benefit from a third party.

State – The November election resulted in some changes. In 2023, the Commonwealth made progress, but certainly much remains to be done. The legislature will be working in the next few weeks. And we shall see.

County/City – Butler County and Morgantown officials worked for improvements. I personally appreciate that the county supported efforts like recycling and measures that will draw people to the Green River and to our county. Also, the renewed city park and the events provided by the City of Morgantown were enjoyed by quite a few people. Living near the park, I see that it was and is well used, even in the winter.

Friends and Family – During 2023, I witnessed local grandparents who provided special family activities for their grandchildren, and I believe these children will carry those memories with them for life. And I applaud those grandparents! In a similar way, my great-grandchildren and great-nieces enjoyed play-date Sundays. My niece recently gave them matching sweatshirts that say “Cousin Crew.” Certainly, families should plan ways to build that sense of family; children need it.

Personal – Looking back over the past year, my family grew with the birth of a precious great-granddaughter, but two very good friends passed away (and are greatly missed). Thankfully, some family members regained health. I spent hours and dollars on home repairs, and my about-100-year-old house still stands. I also enjoyed seeing parts of New England for the first time with my daughter and visiting a favorite gulf beach with family members. Overall, 2023 was a good year.

Ecclesiastes 1:9 (NIV) says: “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.” King Solomon’s words are interesting as we anticipate what 2024 will bring and as we say goodbye to 2023.