Page 4 - MidWeek - Dec 29, 2021

4 MIDWEEK DECEMBER 29, 2021
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What’s the best thing that happened to you in 2021?
I am truly happy to report that I am back at MidWeek and writing this column from my desk computer. While I’m not putting in full days quite yet, I am
thrilled to be back with my team.
They have done an amazing job at getting out all the
publications we’re charged with, especially during our busiest time of the year. I am grateful to work with such talented and loyal people. Also, my absence wouldn’t be possible without the understanding of my boss, Dennis Francis. He cleared my mind of the usual stress associated with an extended absence and continues to check on my progress. Thanks, Dennis.
CLAIRE AU
Business Owner, Waipi‘o
“As a mom, seeing the look on my kids’ faces as they experienced Walt Disney World for the first time. Priceless!”
AARON KENT
Engineer, Honolulu
“Watching the Atlanta Braves win the World Series with my father.”
JILLIAN TAMARU
Catering Sales Manager, Kailua
“Being called back to work after almost an entire year of being furloughed due to COVID-19.”
ROD SHIMABUKURO
Pastor, Kaimukī
“We had the best Thanksgiving family trip spending a week in San Jose with our three grown children, daughter-in-
law, grandson Carter and granddaughter Amora.”
These expressions of my gratitude are in no particular order but this one is the most important to my heart. I have to thank my family for the great care they gave to me as I recovered at home. My wife, my daughter and my son are the greatest reason for my recovery as love is the strongest medicine.
My siblings (brother and sister) and my nephew are also in this category. Of course, I can’t forget my daily bedside companions, our dogs Buddy and Wilson. There are also all my friends who I consider to be my family. I would not have made it through this journey without their support.
Ron Nagasawa
Director of Content / Supplement Products
Ginger Keller
Assistant Editor
Kelli Shiroma Braiotta
Senior Staff Writer
Anthony Consillio
Senior Photographer
Darin Nakakura
Director of Advertising dnakakura@staradvertiser.com (808) 529-4726
Nicole Monton
Managing Editor
Don Robbins
Regional Editor
Tasha Mero
Staff Writer
Jocelyn Lansangan
Staff Writer
Kenny Harrison
Dennis Francis
President & Publisher
Dave Kennedy
Chief Revenue Officer
Bill Mossman
Executive Editor
Mallory Adams- Nakamura Creative Supervisor
Lawrence Tabudlo
Senior Photographer
Mark Galacgac
Graphic Artist
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Will Next Year Be Better?
Every December, I analyze the upcoming year’s themes based on planetary cycles. Many are already asking me, “Will next year be a better year?” Well, pandemic or not, there is no such thing as a year that is “all good” with no challenges.
That said, what do I forecast for 2022? I see a contin- uation of extremes and polarity leading to breakdowns in outdated systems and structures. As we get used to the “new abnormal,” my advice is to think about how you can “upgrade” yourself by letting go of outdated habits, thoughts and beliefs.
In the same way we upgrade our computers and phones, 2022 will be like a reboot, giving us all more options. See you next year!
alice@yourhappinessu.com
The people who literally saved my life, all the medical professionals who took care of me, are too numerous to single out. It’s amazing to see what happens when there’s medical urgency. People and patients see it on a daily basis and we cannot take them for granted. And where cancer is concerned, I cannot stress enough the need to act quickly when something is detected. The biggest obstacle with cancer is time — or lack of it.
One of the most amazing things that happened was the outpouring of concern, prayers and well-wishes from you, our readers. I have never had so many handwritten cards and letters sent to me and rivaled only by mail sent to Santa! The emails I received were overwhelming in quantity but so heartfelt by the genuine messages from people I have never met but who know me by my weekly column. The spiritual energy from that alone could cure anything.
So, as we head into the new year, I do it with a renewed outlook. Seems I have a “third” chance and I will not screw it up. I will no longer waste time on anger, jealousy, apathy and laziness. I believe the purpose of our lives is to be happy and to spread happiness. I’m on it!
rnagasawa@midweek.com