The sun is just rising on the morning of another day, the first day of the new year. What can I wish that this day, that this year, may bring to me?

Nothing that shall make the world of others poorer, nothing at the expense of others; but just those few things which in their coming do not stop with me but touch me rather, as they pass and gather strength:

• A few friends who understand me, and yet remain my friends.
   
• A work to do which has real value without which the world would feel the poorer.
   
• A return for such work small enough not to tax unduly anyone who pays.
   
• A mind unafraid to travel, even though the trail be not blazed.
   
• An understanding heart.
   
• A sight of the eternal hills and unbelting sea, and of something beautiful the individual hand has made.
   
• A sense of humor and the power to laugh.
   
• A little leisure with nothing to do.
   
• A few moments of quiet, silent meditation. The sense of the presence of God.
   
• And the patience to wait for the coming of these things, with the wisdom to know them when they come.