“I’m delighted that the future is unsure. That’s the way it should be.”

— Willia Sloane Coffin

One year ends, and another begins. The old year shouts, “Time to be gone.” The old year leaves, carrying all of the treasures and burdens of the past 12 months with her.

The new year sweeps in, bringing us the gift of time. Let’s anticipate the wonderful things that can happen. Let’s begin the new year giving thanks for the ordinary, simple gifts of life.

We can lay our hands lovingly on the present and the future, as we treasure our home and family. Those things are our foundation. Each one of us is a valuable part of the family. We became people there.

Our home is a place of comfort ”“ a place safe from the pressures of the outside world. It is up to us to keep our homes safe and healthy by growing love and generosity there. Love soothes, encourages and inspires. Without the expression of love, we are severed from our family and friends. It’s the bond that strengthens each of us. Ties of the heart and spirit knit us all together.

It happens every year about now. We are used to the idea that 2014 is history and that 2015 is on our doorstep. Here we are, at the last month of the year. Where has the time gone? The season arrives wrapped in good intentions. The community plans special events, carefully accumulating treasured memories. The plans give birth to memory-making traditions in the life of our community.

Children fix their eyes on these months. It’s funny how little incidents from childhood seem to linger in memory from year to year. To little children life is a treasure of discovery and excitement ”“ a present about to be opened.

Here are some exciting, upcoming events and opportunities for community involvement for youngsters and adults alike, as we march into the new year.

John Maxson and the community are introducing seasonal pleasures in an organized manner. There will be healthy outdoor pursuits and relaxed indoor pleasures during Biddeford WinterFest, on the weekend of Feb. 6-8, 2015. There will be sledding on the mighty Adams Street summit, and even a cardboard sled derby. City Square will be packed full of winter rituals.

To offer an event, set up a booth for your community organization or volunteer to help out, visit heartofbiddeford.org.

For 20 years the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Maine has mentored children. An adult mentor provides stability, reliability and guidance to these children. The youngsters learn that they have great potential. This year the organization will be celebrating its 20th anniversary. Its work is far from over and is really just beginning. The organization could not have come so far in 20 years without the support of countless community members. It needs continued support, so consider becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister or contributing to the organization’s cause in the new year.

Lastly, I would like to remind you that the Biddeford Saco Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours event will be hosted at Saco Sport and Fitness, at 329 North St., on Jan. 8, from 5-7 p.m. Appetizers, refreshments, door prizes and a 50-50 raffle will be offered. Please RSVP by emailing Estella at estella@biddefordsacochambers.org.

— Zaffie Hadiaris of Saco is the host of “Zaffie,” a weekly television talk show on Channel 3 Biddeford public access. It can also be seen at biddefordmaine.org. Contact Hadiaris at zhadiaris@hotmail.com.

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