The new year has definitely included some ups and downs. Three of my former colleagues have passed away recently from sudden and unexpected illnesses. Two more have been stricken with very serious illnesses. In addition to my grief for them and their loved ones, I am of course distracted by thoughts of my own mortality. More than usual, I am taking comfort in words these days. The words I read and the words I write. Sometimes there is nothing to do but fill the void with words.