To Inspire:  As we look ahead to 2018, take stock of the year that is about to conclude.  What are you most thankful for?  What were the significant moments – good ones and challenging ones – that are worth reflecting on?  What did you learn from them?  How did you grow this year as a person?  What did you do for others?  What still remains for you to accomplish in your life?

Asking these questions will prepare you to plan your 2018.  What would it take to make next year your best year ever?  What would you want to accomplish in 2018 that would enable it to be the best year of your life?  Is there a relationship you would improve?  A goal(s) that you would pursue?  A virtue that you would develop?  Take time here at the end of 2017 to sit in a quiet place and to reflect on your life – where you’ve been and where you want to head.  Try to picture your funeral service many years from now – what do you hope people will say about you?  Whatever that is, that is what you need to pursue and work on, for that answer will give you insights into what is most important to you.  Then back up to the present and write down how you will move towards that version of yourself in the coming year.

And one of the best things you can commit to in 2018 is to be a learner.  Learn a new skill, a new language.  If your reading has fallen off, recommit to become a reader again.  Books can change our lives, particularly as we read books that challenge us and inspire us to become the best version of ourselves.  Another way to learn is to listen to others via seminars, podcasts, presentations of various kinds.  Below is a photo from our most recent Portfolios at Panera – a monthly presentation on financial markets given by Travis Upton, our Chief Investment Officer.  At that meeting, we recognized Dave and Jane White, Larry Murcko and George Kroupa – all of whom have had virtually perfect attendance at those monthly gatherings!  They are great examples of continuous learners – people who are still seeking to grow and learn and we love being part of their quest!  Feel free to join us next year – our website will post the dates and locations of each one.

L to R: David White, Jane White, Travis Upton, Larry Murcko and George Kroupa

Whatever your plans/goals/dreams are for next year and beyond, know that we keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers.  May each of you live a great life in 2018 and may you “tell the story” of your life with great joy.  For those of you who celebrate Christ’s birth, Merry Christmas!  For all of you, a very happy holiday and a very blessed, happy and purposeful New Year in 2018!