Soon, the various 2024 calendars you bought of your friends’ dogs can come out of the filing cabinet and take their rightful place in your office — depending on how many photogenic dogs are in your life. Will 2024 be like the picture of your friend’s dog pooping, or the one of her in a bubble bath?  

We may not be able to predict the future, but we can control what we put out in the world in 2024. One thing I won’t be doing in the current year is hate — anyone, and hopefully anything. I can also promise that I will not judge people in 2024, as it serves no purpose and is also kind of mean. Lastly, I think it’s my duty to give generously to charities and nonprofits that reflect my values — and especially to the charities that have better values than me! 

This year I think we should concentrate on ensuring our local communities are strong — that our school boards are not directed by people who want to ban books like Night; that our leadership positions are filled with people who believe in science; and that no voice is given to people who try to confuse the uninformed by saying the first amendment only protects one religion. It’s a lot, and I can’t wait for the day when we don’t have to worry about this stuff.

One thing that’s guaranteed, though, is that each year will also contain innumerable moments of joy. At Judith Heft & Associates, our mission is to clear your calendar so you can have more of those moments.

Wishing you a prosperous and joyous New Year — from Judy, Liz, and the staff of JHA!