The end of 2014 is upon us. I’m on the verge of releasing my second book. Yet, sometimes, the first one doesn't even seem real. I can't believe my words have reached so many people in so many parts of the world—more than I ever thought they would. I’ve been blessed with wonderful friends and family that have helped spread the word, and I’m eternally grateful for their continued efforts. It’s the support of strangers though, that has prompted this post.

We all lead busy lives. Between work and home, there is often little in the way of down time. We rush around from one place to the next, trying to fit it all in. It’s become easier to bury our heads in our phones, keep our eyes down, stick in the ear buds, and leave it at that. I see it all the time. The halfhearted, last second, obligatory smile to the cashier. The visible indecision whether or not to take five more seconds to hold the door open for the person coming in behind us, or to walk on and let it close.

Thinking back over the last twelve months, I began to realize how many virtual doors have been held open for me since publishing Magic-Price. Many have gone out of their way, devoted time, and shown more interest and kindness than I would have thought possible in this hustle bustle world. They aren’t relatives. We haven’t known each other for years. They’re just good people that I’ve been fortunate to come across. Good people that have bucked the trend by going above and beyond for a stranger.

I’m not going to list individual names. I’m happy to say, there’s too many. I think most of you know who you are, what you’ve done, and how much I appreciate it. And if you’ve taken the time to come here and read this, there’s a good chance you’re one of them. Whether it was helping to get the word out about Magic-Price, posting reviews, sharing experiences, offering advice, or filling my breaks with jokes and nonsensical chats that help preserve my sanity; you’ve made this adrenaline rush of a year a little better. So this is me, getting sappy (which, trust me, doesn’t happen often), thanking each of you for all that you’ve done. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you a new year full of happiness and success in all your endeavors.