FEBRUARY 2025 GLAD TIDINGS 9 The Keen Agers "O God, thou hast taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works." Psalms 71:17 LESSONS FROM GEESE We live in an area where geese are very common. We see them coming in the Fall and leaving early Spring. Their migration is an awesome sight. There is an interdependence in the way geese function. FACT: As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an “uplift” for the bird following. By flying in a “V” formation, the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew alone. LESSON: People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier because they are traveling on the thrust of one another. A shared vision and sense of purpose create synergy, making the going a little easier for all. FACT: Whenever a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to fly alone. It quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the “lifting power” of the bird immediately in front. LESSON: If we have as much sense as a goose, we will stay in formation with those we see who are headed where we want to go. FACT: When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies at the point position. LESSON: It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing leadership — people, as with geese, are interdependent upon one another. FACT: The geese in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed. LESSON: Positive encouragement is a strong motivator. We need to make sure our “honking” from behind is empowering, and not something less helpful. FACT: When a goose gets sick or wounded, two geese drop out of formation to follow him or her down to help and protect their fallen companion. They stay with him/her until [s]he is either able to fly again or dies. Then they launch out on their own with another formation or catch up with their flock. LESSON: If we have as much sense as the geese, we will learn to stand by each other as we are achieving our goals. u By Robert McNeish, Associate Superintendent Baltimore Public Schools ~Contributed by Lee Alexander~ Finish 2024 with Grace & Launch 2025 with Strength! Wow! It seems like we blinked and suddenly we're on the brink of a new year. This season always makes me somewhat introspective, pondering the highs, the lows, and all the moments in between. One thing that truly resonates with me this year is how we can conclude 2024 positively and enter 2025 with confidence— through prayer, God's Word, and a hopeful spirit—encouraging each other to rise and build. Let's conclude this year by carrying forward the redemptive aspects of 2024, with its intentional and meaningful elements, and beginning the new year with strength and spiritual grounding. Reflect on 2024 with Gratitude and Honesty First, I think it's so important to look back on a year with gratitude. Maybe 2024 wasn't perfect (when is it ever?), but take a few minutes to remember the moments that brought joy or growth. These could be big milestones, or they could be small but meaningful memories—those treasured times with God when you cried out to Him and He answered in a way that made you feel loved and seen. Then, be honest about the tough stuff too. Sometimes, we brush over the harder parts because we're ready to move on, but there's something powerful about laying down those struggles before God. Whether it was a challenging relationship, a lost opportunity, or even a season of feeling distant from God, take some time to let Him into those memories. Invite Him to heal, to renew, and to redeem those parts of the year that feel unfinished. Set Aside Time for Prayer As the year comes to a close, make an effort to find a bit more time for prayer. Simply place everything at His feet. If you're anything like me, life can often feel so hectic that it's difficult to pause and take a breath. Try to spend quiet time with God. If you can, tell yourself to pace yourself. It's actually very powerful. Ending the year in prayer feels like setting the stage for what's to come. Let's keep it real; prayer doesn't have to be complicated. You don't need fancy words or a long list. Just come as you are. Talk to God like you'd talk to your best friend. Ask Him to show you what He's been doing in your life this year. Pray over the dreams you have for 2025, and ask for guidance, wisdom, and strength to follow His lead, and then praise Him. Anchor Yourself in God's Word for the New Year One of my favorite things to do around this time is ... See NELLIE - Page 16 NELLIE O’HARA Burlington, ON, Canada PLANTS IN WATER 7 Stunning Plants That Thrive and Bloom in Water—No Soil Needed! 1. Lucky Bamboo: Easy to grow in water, Lucky Bamboo thrives in low light and adds an elegant touch to any room. 2. Pothos: Known for its air-purifying qualities, Pothos grows quickly in water and requires minimal care. 3. Philodendron: This adaptable plant does well in water, offering lush green foliage that enhances indoor spaces. 4. Spider Plant: Spider Plants produce offshoots that can root and grow in water, making them perfect for hydroponic growth. 5. Peace Lily: Peace Lilies bloom beautifully in water and help improve indoor air quality. 6. Chinese Evergreen: With its striking leaves, Chinese Evergreen is easy to grow in water and tolerates low light conditions. 7. Wandering Jew: This vibrant, trailing plant thrives in water and adds a splash of color with its purple and green leaves. Conclusion: Soil-Free Gardening Embrace the ease of growing these plants in water and enjoy their beauty and benefits without the need for soil. u
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