Here we are.December 23rd, 2025.
A short, honest year-end check-in from me, with my morning coffee.
It’s been a year marked by conflict, shootings, and acts of terrorism. Needless deaths that always bring a feeling of sadness and despair. It’s hard not to feel the weight of that at times.
June knocked me sideways. I lost my job, and for a few weeks that brought its own worries and sleepless nights. Then I did what I could. I focused on Empower Over 50 and the YouTube channel. One steady video. One real conversation. One small step at a time.
I’m still learning where the camera lens actually is.
In the autumn, I spent five weeks in China — mostly Shanghai and Beijing. Big cities. Bigger lessons. Early mornings, night markets, and a lot of notes recorded at odd hours thanks to time zones. China has come a long way since my first visit in 2004.
I’m closing the year in England with family. I also had a short hospital stay — just a few nights — and I’m fine. Grateful, actually. Health matters. Family and friends matter too.
If you’ve read, watched, or commented this year, thank you for being here. I didn’t know if anyone would care. You proved me wrong, and I’m glad you did.
Before we close the book on 2025, I’d love to hear about your year.
What surprised you? What steadied you? What did you get through?
Drop a comment with one win, one lesson, or one thing you made it through.
If video is more your thing, I’ll keep posting over on the channel:
https://youtube.com/@empowerover50
I’m taking a break over the holidays, but I’d like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
See you in the new year.
Max
