I think there is a force in the universe that wants us to be happy, at least some of the time. Why else would there be rainbows, fluffy clouds of all shapes, sweet-faced dogs, music that makes us dance, toddlers learning to walk, geraniums clambering all over, and sun-showers?
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Astronomers have recently discovered two gigantic black holes in far-away galaxies. Each black hole is 10 billion times the size of our sun. Other astronomers have discovered an earth-like planet circling another star, and this planet would appear to have a temperature of 72 degrees.  In other news, it is estimated that the number of stars in the universe is greater than the number of grains of sand on all the beaches on Earth. Upon reading all this, do you feel as small and insignificant as an ant?
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I know, I know, I have dissed ants. I understand that ants have a complex and highly evolved culture and I should be more respectful of them. Many different types of scientists have studied ants, from social biologists to computer scientists, and have gained important knowledge from these petite and industrious creatures. Abby vows, as we begin the new year, to be more careful to acknowledge the contributions of all beings.