The pundits are out in full force again as Christmas gets closer and closer talking about the housing projections for the upcoming year. Talk about the doom and gloom crowd. Basically it's the same old story that the housing slump will continue, borrowing standards will be stricter, buyers will remain cautious, builders and homeowners will continue to drop prices to drum up interest. This will lead to falling home construction which will weaken the economy reducing demand for housing materials, appliances, furniture and weaken job growth for builders, mortgage companies, and occupations related to the housing industry. Blah, blah, blah. As many have stated, the bottoming of this cycle may not have occurred (YET), but it is not the end of the world. The very season we are in REMINDS US OF HOPE!
Do you realize we just passed through the Winter solstice? The time of the year where the days grow to their shortest in the Northern hemisphere and then gradually the days grow longer with more light brightening our days. Light returns and spring comes along at a point in time. Do not worry so much about darkness.
In politics both Clinton and Huckabee are proud to call their hometowns Hope, to signify that they believe in their lives about positive change.
One of the biggest signs of hope in our lives is the renewal of life with children. Their innocence is a reminder to not take everything so darn seriously and that things will work out for the best in the end. A child can lead us to what is truly important.
And in this season of Christmas we celebrate another child who entered the world to point the way to the bigger meaning of life apart from our daily cares. So never lose hope. Everything will be just fine in the end.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Ken: Merry Christmas to you!
Duane: Great point about life being fleeting. I think you have great understanding. Merry Christmas.
Julie: I love that description of the sparkling stars. They say friends are like the stars in the daytime. You may not always see them but you know they are always there. That's how I feel about you and others I have been privileged to have known. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Gary,
I am excited about 2008. Should be lots of buying opportunities and less competition with other realtors.
In 2008 we can do business the old fashioned way(hard work). You know what they say,"hard work never hurt anyone".
Sarah: Hope springs eternal! Enjoy this festive time of the year.
Mike: I think 2008 will be an improving year as well.
Al: See the good that's all around you. You are right!
Gary,
What a touching post! Thank you for writing it.
Mike in Tucson
Mike: Merry Christmas.
Karen: Congratulations on the upcoming new bundle of joy! With the winter solstice it is always darkest before the light returns. Enjoy your holiday too!