Like many folks, I read/scan the news every morning — hoping for some good news.

At the end of one of my morning reads, the platform always has a song that is meant to be upbeat and encouraging. As I read the news, it was anything but upbeat and encouraging ,and then I saw the song.

Say what you will about the late John Lennon but he desired peace and acceptance while he was with us and one of my favorite songs is his “Imagine.” However, the song at the end of the news feed was his powerful “Let It Be.”

As the lyrics — which I’ve heard many times — came flowing to me, I was struck by how apropos they are for today’s world.

“…And when the night is cloudy there is still a light that shines on me, shine until tomorrow, let it be … And when the brokenhearted people living in the world agree, there will be an answer, let it be.”

Let it be…perhaps that’s what is needed in greater supply today.

Let’s face it. We live in scary times — socially, politically and personally. As there is a time to begin something, there needs to be a time to end something — let it be. Lennon’s song is filled with thoughts for letting go of social, political and personal issues. There needs to be a time to just let it go and let it be — for the good of everyone.

Later that day and as the sun went down in a stunning setting, I poured myself a glass of Line 39 Cabernet Sauvignon. The 39th Parallel runs through the California wine country and hence the name of the wine. It’s sourced from multiple vineyards in that locale and is a joyfully dry and peaceful wine to drink. There’s a full luscious mouth feel that is followed by some blackberry and chocolate tastes and, then, it’s gone — swiftly and deliciously.

This wine is a light for me and I’ll look forward to having it shine on me tomorrow, too.

As we slog through this national mess we are in right now, let’s keep a few thoughts deeply ingrained in our hearts.

First, it’s best to be safe — not just for yourself but for all the people around you. If that means our holiday celebrating will be a bit different this year, let it be. That doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy each others company online or over the phone and have a glass of Pinot Noir!

Secondly, let’s not forget that, although times are tough now, better times are coming if we work together. When you can’t seem to win an argument, rethink the situation. Maybe we should be listening to each other more and yelling less at each other? Listen first, think it through and then politely respond — we needs friends now not enemies and when all are broken hearts agree, there will be an answer — let it be.

Third, let’s work together to fulfill the values we all hold near and dear in our hearts — honesty, equity, respect, opportunity and a bright future for everyone. Let’s stop the hate and vitriolic statements that only wound our society and us.

As a nation filled with a shining light, we will succeed.

Finally, we are not going to solve all our issues immediately — it will take working together, time , patience and understanding. That’s a lot of work but a lot of work can be satisfying — like a glass of Dark House Pinot Grigio.

This wine is made by the wine maker working together with over 400 grape growers and they have produced a nice, crisp and very dry wine. No, it doesn’t have the strong citrus flavors of some Pinot Grigios I’ve tasted but, if you let it be, it’s really pleasurable to drink.

“…and when the night is cloudy there is still a light that shines on me, shine until tomorrow, let it be. And when the brokenhearted people living in the world agree, there will be an answer, let it be.”

Thanks, John! I needed your words today.

As always, eat and drink in moderation but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!