Ah, yes! Like taking a refreshing sip of water after being thirsty for a long while–the busy rush of the holidays are behind us as we welcome a brand new year with open arms! I hope that in reflection of the past year that we observed the growth of something; whether it be a loved one, a project you’ve been working on, a plant, or even ourselves. I’ve found that this not only can help us mark a passage of time, but if we have an impact on the growth of this person or thing, it can teach us about our own self-awareness and the external (and internal) affect we can have. Hopefully our impact was for the better in 2025, and even more importantly, that we have this optimistic outlook for the upcoming–now present year of 2026!
“Know that you are loved,”
While I was looking for a song to review a few months ago I came across this one and felt that it had a sense of reflection to it as well as a feeling that sparks optimism that would be perfect for bringing in the new year. This song is somewhat more of a chant or mantra, as the lyrics are short and repetitive–so much so that at a point the vocals, beautifully written and sung by the artist, Cleo Sol, start to blend into an instrument of their own. The way that the lyrics are softly sung add a floaty texture to the song that evokes reflection. The instrumentation is simplistic as it only features a bass and a piano that are played in a way that entrances the listener into a state of tranquility and calmness. Some may hear this song and think of it as a song for someone who lacks self-love. However, when I saw the cover of this album, which is titled “Mother” was the artist of the song, Cleo Sol, holding her baby, it led me to think about two things. First, how this is a great transition song from Christmas being the birth of Jesus Christ; being born as a baby into the world, just like all of us were when we had to learn basic functions like how to talk and walk. I think back to the stable where Jesus was born and imagine Mary cradling her newborn baby. I wonder if at the time of Jesus’ birth if He knew how He would change the world and how much love the world had for Him then–and even at this point now, back then. The second thought that I had was that maybe this isn’t a song only for someone who doesn’t love themselves, as in a lacking sense, but maybe also for someone who doesn’t know how to, like a baby. One could argue that we know how to love when we’re born, but I think there’s a little more to it that one has to learn, and be shown, and experience first hand in order to love.
“Even if you don’t love yourself.”
I wonder if you’re aware of how much love awaits you in 2026… Even though this year is brand new and just budding into existence like a baby, know that you’re already greatly loved by your families, your friends, your congregation, and most importantly, by Jesus Christ. I hope that this year that you’re blessed to be able to measure time by watching someone you love grow by your side, by watching the little bud on your favorite plant turn into a flower, or even by checking out the muscles you’ve improved in the mirror, but realize that your impact makes a difference.
If nothing else, we all should go into 2026 with one piece of advice: Know that you are loved, even if you don’t love yourself. Happy New Year.
References:
Sol, Cleo. “Know That You Are Loved.” Spotify, 20 Aug. 2021. Accessed 23 Dec. 2025