Here's to a Happy and Prosperous 2010

It's New Year's Eve, so it's time to set down a few thoughts in anticipation of the start of a new year. I have some personal goals that I'll keep to myself for now, although I will post about them eventually.

Yogi Berra once said, "You've got to be very careful if you don't know where you are going, 'cause you might not get there."

Yogi's wise words are something for everyone to think about...but this year I turned fifty and they definitely rang a bell for me. I used to think round-number birthdays weren't important, just a matter of coincidence, but this one is different...probably something in the fact that in the modern economy, this anniversary date means you are about 2/3 through your working life. And that's what has me thinking at this time of year.

Introspection this year will be focused on the vision for this last third of my working life - is it time for another career change, is there something else I'd like to do at this point - but also, I do want to take some time out for service to a few select organizations which support causes that I can identify with.

One such cause is "The Mission Continues." I put a little video up above to provide some background information. Eric Greitens, the founder, was featured in an Outside Magazine piece this month, too, so that is another place you can find some info if you are interested, at http://outside.away.com/outside/culture/200912/altruism-all-stars-eric-greitens.html .

I appreciate what this organization has in mind to do for veterans. I appreciate their sacrifices. I'd like to see that they are able to explore ways to make contributions to our communities - their experience and talent is too valuable to be denied that opportunity.

I hope that my readers will join me in supporting The Mission Continues.

And about those personal goals? Well, I do want to enjoy more time at the Hawksbill Cabin, and outdoor activities in the Shenandoah Valley with the community out there. There'll be plenty of posts - and I hope a new podcast or two - to go along with that resolution.

Meanwhile, here's to a Happy and Prosperous 2010 for all!