January 1st. Time to leave. From where and to where. Pope Francis in the title of the Message for the World Day of Peace: No one can save itself. Restart from COVID-19 to trace together paths of peace; places the starting point in overcoming COVID-19. After these three hard years «Today we are called to ask ourselves: What have we learned from this pandemic situation? what new paths we must undertake to free ourselves from the chains of our old habits, to be better prepared, to dare with the new? what signs of life and hope we can take advantage of to move forward and try to make our world a better place? But as if that were not enough, we witnessed a war, like all, caused by selfishness and the eagerness of a gang of egomaniacs. That is a lethal virus: «Indeed, the virus of war is more difficult to defeat than those that affect the organism, because it does not come from the outside, but from the interior of the human heart, corrupted by sin».

Every year on this day we look at the horizon with an illusion overflowing with hope that sets us on our way, gives us wings to move forward, even when the obstacles seem insurmountable. lungs full of hope they are able to find oxygen to continue in the middle of the atmosphere more polluted by displeasures and problems. We do not have to lose; That is why the Pope tells us in his Message: "What is asked of us, then, what we do? First of all, let us change the heart for the emergency that we have lived through, that is, allow God to transform our criteria into habitual ways of interpreting the world and reality through this Historic moment. We can no longer think only about preserving the space of our personal or national interests, but we must conceive ourselves to the light of the common good, with a sense of community, that is, as a "we" open to universal brotherhood. We cannot seek only to protect ourselves; It's time we all commit to healing of our society and our planet, creating the foundations for a more just and peaceful, who is seriously involved in the search for a good that is truly common."

On this World Day of Peace, a question arises: How can we undumb this world? How to make ourselves really sensitive? Why, if we so admire those who give up their lives in defense of the most unprotected, we are not capable of doing the same in our “particular geography”? Have we gotten so used to the bad news that a kind of immunization against the other people's suffering? The Pope tells us: "Therefore, it is urgent that we seek and Let's promote together the universal values that trace the path of this human brotherhood. [...] Indeed, it is together, in fraternity and solidarity,

How can we build peace, guarantee justice and overcome the most painful events [...] Only the peace that is born of brotherly love and disinterested can help us overcome personal, social and world".

We have a year ahead. That expression is too hackneyed and looks like the consolation prize of the New Year's Eve toast more than a life approach. However, beyond the topics, it is necessary to devise the way of taking the reins of life and telling yourself that this year I am going to live with those around me and I am going to fight hard for no violence. I am not going to allow myself even remotely to fall into the temptation of leaving me dragged by the current of the routine, nor of the unease. I will enjoy every moment, without ever losing the north, even if difficulties arise. If you don't know what to do, the Pope gives us ideas: «So, we are called to face the challenges of our world responsibly and compassion. We must return to the question of guaranteeing public health for everyone; promote peace actions to put an end to conflicts and wars that they continue to generate victims and poverty; take care of our house together common and implement clear and effective measures to deal with change climate; fight against the virus of inequality and guarantee food and decent work for all, supporting those who do not even have a salary minimum and go through great difficulties. The scandal of the peoples hungry hurts us. We have to develop, with adequate policies, the reception and integration, especially of migrants and those living as discarded in our societies. Just investing in these situations, with an altruistic desire inspired by infinite love and merciful of God, we will be able to build a new world and help to build the Kingdom of God, which is a Kingdom of love, justice and peace».

Firmness, courage and conviction are not achieved by dint of rehearse in the mirror, or hold dialogues with the collar of our shirt, but it is strengthened in dealing with others, in complex situations before which hopefully this year you start, start, not to look the other way.

Truly reconciling, accepting each other, sowing smiles is not so easy how to sow discord; whitening smiles is not achieved by dint of golden toothpastes, but based on a firm commitment that allows no one forbid you to smile, that we take seriously that we must always try that others are happier than us.

It is time to really start again, without half measures. The calendar of this odd year is in our hands. Now we just need to leave each other affected by so many unfair situations and we get down to work to find them a solution. May Mary protect us. Happy New Year.