Dear Friend,

As I write the New Year of 2012 has dawned and is to be welcomed, no matter what its evolving moments will unfold. The “January flower” alluded to in Kavanagh’s poem, Advent, is a premonition of Spring’s dawn. The flower’s tentative presence is already visible in the scarcely noticeable lengthening evenings, protruding snowdrops and rather premature daffodil shoots announcing nature’s unstoppable energy. There is an energy in us humans, too, that makes things happen when the paths of other persons and groups touch ours and all we have to do is to be there, listen and respond so that dreams and hopes can take colour and shape. The past year has been one such amazing time of meetings and greetings with many who have been there with and for us as we, at Vita House, worked towards making our dream of a new extension a reality – something for which we are deeply grateful. Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and its enormous challenges, it is my hope that we can, together, continue to generate that ethos of listening where people can be respected and heard, and where openness to the new can make new things happen. Our Spring/Summer Programme is resonant with opportunities and spaces to nurture the new and harness the energy of resilience and hope that is at our deep hearts’ core, despite the pull of doubt, depression and worry. A warm welcome awaits you all both at Goff Street and Abbey Street when the extension is complete. We will keep you informed as the date draws closer. Yours sincerely,

Mary Lee