I know it seems like forever since I last fed your minds with a meal from my kitchen and believe me, it’s not been a good feeling for me either. You bet I have a WHOLE LOT cooking that is waiting to be served to you! First of all, I’ve never missed writing to you so extremely! It felt like leaving a family you were so accustomed to. That’s how I realized the readers of my chronicles have become such a special part of my life in such a short time. Your priceless encouragement to me to keep up with my work and your ability to make me feel so accountable to you even without knowing most of you personally beats my understanding. I am honored and I’d love to take this chance to express my sincere gratitude to those who, over the months, have taken time to write to me and share their ideas and showed appreciation. I am grateful for my lovely friends who haven’t stopped asking when my next article would feature, my family which never failed to recognize my talent and whose expressive nature has been my main source of information, ideas, arguments and general direction. I appreciate all those who have told me not to ‘give up!’ in their own particular way. Thank you is an understatement. The author, Mathew Riley wrote; “to anyone who knows a writer, never underestimate the power of your encouragement!” Secondly, the festive season is finally here! I’m not sure about you but on my part, it feels like last Christmas was just yesterday! One of the hardest things for me to believe is that 2011 is actually ending. This is in addition to the quite minimal adjustment to the festive mode in the city as compared to other countries according to feedback especially from our fellow East African neigbours. Nevertheless, we are still closing one door and opening another. It is my prayer that as we all usher in the new year, we enjoy ourselves to the fullest but wisely, that we reflect on the significance of both Christmas and the opportunity of a new year in your life. That we set goals, targets and personal principles and regulations to give direction and meaning to your journey through 2012. And very importantly, that you take time to evaluate who you have been during 2011, face the mistakes but do not let them determine your forward steps; you can’t change the past anyway and no one is without imperfections. So instead of regretting, pick up the lessons and use them to change course or refine yourself for today is the only chance we’ve got since tomorrow isn’t promised. Overall, I have personally been challenged and changed by so much this year and I will be honored to share with you and probably make an impact on so many. hozatash@yahoo.com
