My mother used to say that you should do on New Year's Day those things you want to do for the whole year.  I did some of them today.  I walked the dogs with my wife.  I cooked (did an eggplant Parmesan, something I haven't done for years…).  I had some fun exchanges with my daughter.  Tonight I will get back to the book I am writing (did I say that my New Year's resolution is to finish the book?).  I did not grade!  I am blogging.

Work on the book has been sporadic, at best, in the past year.  I made a lot of headway in Fall, 2007, when I was on leave.  But 2008 turned out to be quite busy: teaching and the summer program I run.  I am re-dedicating myself to the project now.  And I was helped in this yesterday, when I received an email that reminded me of why I write.  Or, to put more of a point on it, someone sent me a note that exemplified the continuing reward I reap from Aidan's Way.  Here's the text of the message:

Dear Professor Crane:
I am in my office cleaning out files–an end of the year ritual that I
generally despise, except in those rare instances when I find something
I saved and the reason for saving it is so apparent. Such is the case
with an op ed piece you wrote for  the NY Times ten years.  Your article
dealt with your son and the concept of productivity. My daughter is a
young woman who is severely mentally retarded.  Like your son, she
inspires me and my family and all who meet her.  I know why I saved your
article and it is going back in the file to be found again.  Thank you
for allowing me to end 2008 on such a beautiful note.
Regards,

He is referring to this piece, which was published in November, 1998.   I responded to say how I am gratified I am to know that Aidan's life, and the things he taught me, still radiate out into the world.  I doubt I will ever receive a return anything like that with anything else I write.  But, ultimately, it is that kind of connection, that kind of effect, that inspires me.  That is why I write.

Happy New Year.