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Growing up in the hills of rural America, like most families in the area, my grandfather tended a farm that provided fresh food for my family. One day he pointed at the barnyard and shared a story of a conversation he overheard between the animals. One day Mrs. Chicken said to Mr. Pig, “Did you hear about the food drive at the local school? The teachers are asking the community to donate food items to send home with the children over the Christmas holiday. I'll donate some eggs and you donate some bacon?” Taken aback, Mr. Pig replied, “That might be OK by you, but for me it would require total commitment!” Now I know that story might sound a little bit "folksy" to you, but I can't help thinking about it at this time of year when it's hard to avoid the clarion calls for us to think about our goals for the next 12 months. Who wouldn't feel like Mr Pig, especially those of us who find ourselves in more challenging circumstances? Making the changes necessary for a healthier physical, emotional, or spiritual life often requires a commitment that can seem overwhelming at times. And it can be a hard truth to take onboard, but change isn't going to happen unless you decide it's going to. It’s down to you to make a - no matter how small the change. If we want to make changes in our lives, or help friends, loved ones or others make the changes in their lives that they want, we have to give people agency - to encourage them to accept that they can make change happen. But tough love alone isn't enough. We have to be prepared to walk alongside people in that journey; to be there when times are hard. For me, as a Christian, Jesus is that companion. The example of the good shepherd is a recurring theme in the Bible and in my life I try and fulfil that role by praying with my children - the most important thing I think a parent can do. But Inspirational and steadfast companions come in many guises. When my congregation in Huntingdon spent time with Jamie Oliver he taught us that by daily replacing one unhealthy food item with a healthier choice, we could experience marked change in our physical health. At the time our town was known as the fattest place in the USA. Over the course of two years, our congregation lost two tons of weight and our obesity rate dropped over 20%. We don’t have to feel like Mr. Pig when it comes to making lifestyle changes. Consistent and incremental changes over significant periods of time can yield positive effects and a happier new year and I hope, if you need one, you find your good shepherd in 2023.