As the year draws to a close, many individuals take time to reflect on their blessings and the challenges that lie ahead. In a recent column, Tom Hine from Ukiah emphasizes the duality of life in 2025, highlighting both the extraordinary advancements and the underlying anxieties that accompany modern living.
The piece opens with a recognition of the remarkable progress made over the past century. From significant medical breakthroughs, such as heart transplants, to the prospect of space travel, Hine paints a picture of a world filled with opportunities. He notes that even basic comforts like food security and access to technology are more prevalent than ever. “America’s impoverished are well-fed, own automobiles, TVs, a full fridge, air conditioning and free schools,” he writes, underscoring the wealth of resources available to many.
Yet, amid these advancements, there exists a pervasive sense of unease. Hine articulates a feeling of loneliness in a world that has never been easier or safer. Despite the material comforts, many individuals grapple with anxiety about losing their possessions or the stability of their lives. “Our trust is tenuous; our faith is watery,” he notes, encapsulating the complex emotions that often accompany the season of joy.
Christmas: A Time for Kindness and Reflection
As Christmas approaches, Hine suggests that the holiday serves as a reminder to be kinder and more compassionate. He observes people participating in acts of charity, such as donating to the Salvation Army, even to strangers they may never meet. The familiar carols fill the air, prompting moments of introspection that are both comforting and poignant.
In his musings, Hine reflects on his own feelings of insignificance while gazing at the stars. “I feel ignorant and insignificant,” he shares, expressing a common sentiment in a fast-paced world filled with technological marvels. This juxtaposition of feelings resonates as he navigates the complexities of contemporary life.
In the spirit of sharing, Hine offers his own recommendations for literary works that transcend the year 2025. He cites several influential titles, including The Awakening Land by Conrad Richter, which explores the pioneering spirit in uncharted territories. He also highlights The Secret History by Donna Tartt, Plainsong by Kent Haruf, Postcards by Annie Proulx, and As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner. These books, though not new, offer profound insights into the human experience and the struggles of life.
As 2025 comes to a close, Hine’s reflections prompt readers to consider their own blessings, the challenges they face, and the importance of community during this festive season. The magic of living in the present, despite the uncertainties, remains a powerful theme as people come together to celebrate Christmas and look forward to the new year.
