evidence: As I was engaged in my annual end-of-the-year reflection, I came across this Ralph Waldo Emerson (an American essayist, lecturer, philosopher, and poet who led the transcendentalist movement of the mid-19th century) quote: What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us. His phrase what "lies within us" reminded me of the Fall of the Big Tree story. The story goes: [...] This story really speaks to me about the importance of keeping our inner core strong, physically, emotionally, and mentally. If we can keep our inner core strong, if we can stay grounded, our chances of successfully dealing with challenges that come our way are increased. [...] As we head into a new year, having a goal of staying grounded and maintaining a strong inner core might be just what it takes for our life journey to proceed on a brighter, more even, and positive path. Brian Tracy (motivational speaker and self-development author) said, "You have within you right now, everything you need to deal with whatever the world can throw at you." Indeed. What "lies within us" will help us move forward on our life journey. Our source of strength comes from our foundation so we must remain grounded with a strong inner core. If we do, no matter what we face in the new year, we will be able to face it with determination, persistence, confidence, and resolve.