Each January I try to think of a topic which sets the tone for the year. In the past I've talked about setting goals, building habits, gratitude, and staying motivated. This year I've seen people close to me suffer some truly unexpected blows. Cards dealt which make life's hand seem unplayable. Dear friends and friends-of-friends have watched their entire lives wrested from their grasp, upsetting their dreams and reshaping reality in unexpected and unfair ways. There is a profound sense of helplessness which can overwhelm us when we see those who are dear to us suffer. We rush forward to do what we can, but there are limits. Some things are beyond our control, and it can be hard to make sense of our position in this new, unsettling universe. I know I am not alone in this. Undoubtedly you have experienced this for yourself, or you have heard stories and thanked your stars you had been spared a similar situation. You may have spent a few sleepless nights wondering if it will be your turn next. We may do our best to mitigate risk, but there is no exoneration from adversity in this life. It will come, and we will face it. I will say this about the terrible hardships I have witnessed: Within these awful situations, I have watched those affected respond with tremendous resiliency. While I am in awe of their resilience, the American Psychological Association reminds me "Research has shown that resilience is ordinary, not extraordinary. People commonly demonstrate resilience." Is it easy? No. Additionally (from the APA): "Being resilient does not mean that a person doesn't experience difficulty or distress. Emotional pain and sadness are common in people who have suffered major adversity or trauma in their lives. In fact, the road to resilience is likely to involve considerable emotional distress." What this means is that we all have the capacity for resilience. As long as we live, we can continue, and we can find a way to "have the life that is waiting for us" (as E.M. Forster says). For 2016, I would like you to keep the concept of resilience in mind. You can learn more about the Road to Resilience here. Cherish your loved ones. Value every healthy moment in your life. Provide your support for those suffering and help them to recover in any way you can. My best to each and every one of you. We are all in this together.

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