The Sour Grapes of Life: Choosing Our Influences in 2026

As we approach the New Year, I was reminded this morning of a profound truth while preparing my lunch. While reaching for a bunch of grapes in the refrigerator, I stumbled upon one that was spoiling, a stark reminder of how something contaminated can affect those around it. It struck me that life, much like that bunch of grapes, is often influenced by the company we keep.

In the midst of my perfect lunch, there sat that solitary spoiled grape, threatening to ruin the freshness of its companions. I realized that as we step into 2026, we have an important choice to make: to surround ourselves with those who nurture our well-being and support our growth, or to remain stagnant amidst those who pull us down.

This New Year, I want to challenge everyone to reflect on who and what we allow into our lives. The metaphor of the spoiled grape serves as a reminder, one bad influence can infect those around it. But more importantly, it also encourages us to practice discernment in our relationships. 

With God's love guiding us, we need not discard the entire bunch because of one spoiled grape. Instead, we can carefully examine what remains salvageable. There is a tendency to view relationships as all-or-nothing, and in doing so, we often miss the potential for redemption and growth in others. Challenging each other through compassion can foster an environment where we support each other in healing.

Thus, my challenge for 2026 is this: let us strive to cut away the spoiling influences in our lives while still seeking the good fruit that can be found in all of us. It’s easy to give up on those who show signs of imperfection, but is that what it means to be a child of God? True love involves patience, understanding, and the willingness to see the potential for growth in others, even amidst imperfections.

As we enter the New Year, let us lean into God's love and grace, working to mend our relationships rather than abandon them outright. Just as I found that most of the grapes were still perfectly edible, I believe there are redeemable qualities in each of us, waiting to be nurtured.

So, as we reflect on the year ahead, let's commit to making conscious decisions about our influences. Together, let’s support each other in growth, allowing God's love to guide us in separating the spoiled from the good, while savoring all that life has to offer in 2026.

Happy New Year! -Nina