Ready or not, 2024 is upon us. For some, the past year flew by, with great successes, wonderful memories, and a list of achievements.  For others, a new year couldn’t get here soon enough. 2023 was a year of struggles, setbacks, or even the loss of loved ones.

Regardless of the kind of year we had, one thing is certain: a new year brings with it a fresh start…a new canvas where we have the opportunity for reflection of the past and can paint a new picture going forward.

Edit Lovejoy Pierce had this to say about the dawning of a new year: “We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity, and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.”

For those who have faced the loss of a loved one, a new year will have its challenges, as the path of grief is never without its bumps. The memories of the past and the struggles of living with the absence of someone we loved dearly are often painful and difficult. The new year also provides the opportunity for healing and growth, with a new recognition that life endures even in the wake of sorrow.

Because a new year presents us with a blank canvas, it is a good time to rekindle our passions and set our priorities in the embrace of new beginnings. This can encompass everything from making resolutions to get healthier, to saving for a major purchase, or making plans for a vacation. It’s also a time to think about such significant things like drafting a will, purchasing life insurance, and funeral planning. If your goals for the new year include taking care of your memorial plans ahead of time, give us a call at 888-204-3131 or visit  www.ForestLawn.com and we’ll be glad to answer any questions you may have.