Finally, we can put a close on 2010 tonight.

On a national level, it was a year fraught with challenges: economic downturns, oil spills, political upheaval, unwanted health care reforms, rising unemployment, shaky consumer confidence and more.

Closer to home, though, we had our challenges as well: proration forced public schools to tighten their budgets even more; untimely deaths claimed the lives of young people and loved ones, and we saw the passing of longtime community leaders who had done much to impact our community; the economic challenges facing our nation were felt at home, as governments struggled with swings in sales tax revenues and the political changes in Washington swept into Alabama, as well.

The year was, at best, unsettling on many levels.

As we look back through the lens of time, we will see 2010 differently. We will remember fondly the good times and growth: the news of economic expansions in Troy and Pike County, the refreshing change of political leadership, the joys of everyday moments. And we’ll be able to see the lessons learned from the challenges, and how those challenges prepared us for the times ahead.

Today, though, 2011 stands before us with its story yet to be written. It holds the promises of hope and possibilities, as individuals and communities look ahead to what they seek to accomplish in the year ahead.

It is a time for taking stock, for taking a deep breath, and for taking a look ahead. The future lies in 2011, and we cannot know all that it will hold for us. There will be challenges, that is certain. But we also will have opportunities each day to celebrate the blessings in our lives and our communities, both large and small.

So as you make your resolutions today, add this simple one: to be mindful, no matter what, of the blessings and joys that your life holds each day.

Wishing you a prosperous, healthy and happy 2011.