Happy New Year for 2017

Hello everyone and welcome to 2017.  I hope you've enjoyed Christmas and had a wonderful break.

My name is Nadia. I am the Academic Manager of Distance Learning and the editor of the blog. I thought it was about time I introduced myself and shared a personal message with you.

I don't know what kind of year you had in 2016 but I know that as migrants trying to settle in a new country you must have faced many challenges and in fact not only you but the whole world is wishing for a happier new year.

Last year I came across an inspiring story about a woman who, like all of us, was looking for happiness. A wise nun advised her to take time out every day to reflect on the day and find something she was grateful for. Being a photographer she took a photo and wrote a little note every day of something she was grateful for. This turned out to be her 365grateful project that changed the way she viewed life and helped her be happy.

I took up the challenge in 2016 and even downloaded the app on my iPad. I took a photo every day and added a note about something I was thankful for.  Although admittedly I couldn't last the year, this exercise helped me develop a habit of gratitude and what a difference this made!

At the end of 2016 all the DL team just did that. We stopped, reflected on the year, and decorated our Christmas tree with our notes of gratitude.  Here are some of the things teachers were grateful for:

• The meaningful AMEP program that makes a difference. We all know it costs the government millions of dollars yet is offered free to new migrants
• You, the DL student, and for the rewarding experience of teaching you and seeing you learn, grow and achieve your goals
• The fantastic DL team of teachers who are extremely talented and caring, and I dare say fun to work with

I'd also like to add my gratitude for every student who showed commitment and worked hard to face the challenges of learning a new language. And what a beautiful peaceful country we live in where everyone is valued and respected for who they are.  I also want to thank the students who shared their inspiring stories of courage and determination on the blog in 2016.

There will always be one more word to learn, book to read, skill to master, dream to realise and challenge to conquer in 2017. But I hope you can stop and celebrate what you already have and what you've already achieved.

Having said all that I wish you a VERY HAPPY new year full of gratitude.

• What are 3 things in 2016 you are grateful for?
• What wishes do you have for 2017?
• What are your thoughts on the relationship between gratitude and happiness?

Note: Link to 365grateful story.