Quote: “An optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves.” ― Bill Vaughan
The book is soon to be closed on 2022. Many of us were so glad to see 2021 come to an end because of the pandemic, but it seemed that 2022 wasn’t all that much better. Sure, a lot of the COVID-19 protocols were eased. There was a sharp decline in cases and deaths, a return to in-person events, a lifting of mask mandates, and a general feeling that we were returning to a new normal.
But 2022 brought in a whole new set of changes. Inflation reared its ugly head to reach levels not seen in 40 years. In Europe, tensions mounted as Russian troops invaded neighboring Ukraine and talk of nuclear strikes became part of the dialogue. On a brighter note, California announced it was planning to end the COVID state of emergency in February 2023, signifying a major step toward full normalcy.
Whatever kind of year you experienced in 2022, 2023 is waiting just around the corner. For us at Forest Lawn, we will begin our 117th year of serving families. We’re still committed to being the best, most caring, and compassionate funeral service provider we can be. We’ve got big plans, too, for the new year. We’ll be releasing new properties to bring a wide range of quality options to those who seek to leave a lasting family legacy. Our list of special events, which will all return to being in person, will take us through the year from Black History Month in February, an Armenian Cultural Event in March, Easter Sunrise Services and Ching Ming in April, Dia de los Muertos in October/November, Veterans Day in November, Our Lady of Guadalupe and Lights of Remembrance in December, and new exhibitions during the year in the Museum.
So, as we say goodbye to one year and welcome a new one, what are you looking forward to? Was 2022 a good one for you and do you hope it keeps going? Are you going to set some goals, get things in order, or take a big trip? The transition from one year to the next is a good opportunity to sit down, take inventory of our lives, and come up with some plans and direction for what lies ahead.
We at Forest Lawn hope 2023 is your best year yet!