Dear friends:

A lengthy explanation on the history of New Years celebration includes this statement:

"Many parts of the U.S. celebrate the new year by consuming black-eyed peas. These legumes are typically accompanied by either hog jowls or ham. Black-eyed peas and other legumes have been considered good luck in many cultures...."

Well, I don't believe in luck, because we do not live in a random universe, but one where God is sovereignly in control.  However, I do not let this theological truth interfere with my Southern heritage and tradition of eating black-eyed peas on New Years day.  (Notice that I capitalize the word "Southern.")

I bought my black-eyed peas yesterday and I plan to have a slurping, Southern good time this afternoon, along with my new jar of "Virginia Brand, home style" chow-chow.  Ummmm, yummy!

Hog jowls or ham will not be included because, as good as it is, for health reasons I no longer eat swine flesh.  I learned that cooking does not remove all the many parasites. (I hope I am not spoiling your dinner!)

So, if you are a true, native-born Southerner, or not so blessed but one who has become enlightened despite the obstacles, enjoy your black-eyed peas today.  And while you are eating your peas, or whatever you choose, thank God for the blessings that you have.

May God bless you even more in 2005 as we move ever closer, day by day, to the blessed and awesome Second Advent.  We may not know exactly when it is, but there is one thing we do know for sure and beyond all doubt -- today we are one day closer, and 2005 is one year closer than 2004!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Jim