Some say that in order to have light, you must also have darkness.

In order to have great kindness, for instance, an equally present and ever-daunting evil must also be. ‘Yin’ requires ‘yang’, and this balance is recognized through time. This idea of balance is older than the internet, older than Jesus… it’s as plain as theory gets.

Take, for example, what we know about human “psyche”. We understand that humans are social creatures. The social aspects of technology – in their various forms and applications – have taken a toll on our social nature.

We do take advantage of these platforms. From Facebook to spiritofharwichport.com, new technology is a fabulous way to stay connected to our customers.

• You can always reach me (Joe) via text, for example.

• We, in turn, reach out with remarkable moments that tend to effect a little towns like ours. Things like C.Liquor’s [secret] Winter Wine Sale.

• We are happy to take your questions. Conversely, we love wacky requests and great suggestions (black vodka, for example.)

All of this is facilitated by social media. But at what cost? Hopefully, we haven’t forsaken “personal touch.” In other words, we always look forward to the good conversations we can have at Cranberry Liquors.

Captain Cranberry manning his post at the counter.

Despite all that is new and digital, there is something to be said about the life-changing people you meet face-to-face for that thing we all crave: a little humanity!

Arriving back to the start of the year is strangely, seemingly expected with its wide open calendar. Nature serves as a reminder that like spring counterbalances autumn, even the (sometimes dreadful) winter has a purpose in this equilibrium.

Like the initial blanket of snow, it is as if the New Year plants a winter seed, seeing if it cannot emerge victorious come springtime… bringing with it the bloom of new challenges and, ultimately, accomplishments.