2008 has been an interesting year.

2009 will be a challenge.

The ability to find the things in our lives that are important and basic to what we need will become more important than ever before. The excessive things in our lives may need to fall away, and we'll come to recognize that which does truly sustain us.

The power that art, music and creative pursuit provide are now more important than ever. We will need these things to balance out the practical and numerical parts of our lives; we need to rediscover the simple pleasures that we get from seeing and creating art, and from making and dancing to music. Especially when we feel that it's the last thing we should do, that's usually a sign that we need to do it more.
Art still matters.
Music still matters.
And they both give as good as they get.

Peace and love to you all during this holiday season.
Share the simple gifts you have with others and let yourself be empowered by what they offer as well.

And thank you for all the support you've given to me and my work. If it gives you happiness, joy, something to think about, or entertainment, then my job is done.

Paul Sizer, 2008