Year End Reflection

As many of us do at this time of year, I become reflective on the events of the past twelve months. It is often the turmoil we see most instead of the blessings. Yet, without the turmoil, the blessings often slip by us unnoticed. One of my many blessings for which I am thankful for are my mentors. One helps me view my turmoil as opportunities, another helps me focus on my gift for putting words to paper, yet another leads me down paths of spiritual awareness. Wrapped in all of these blessings is one that many in this country are struggling with, and with each cashed paycheck I pray for those who go without steady income.

This year, Blaze and I found each other and traveled nearly 10,000 miles together. We were both blessed to return home safely. Our trip to the Great Lakes, while a fantastic adventure, found me in the midst of personal turmoil. I could have easily tossed off all and given up without the help of friends. Teaching me to focus on what I want versus what I don’t want helped me to better places in my life.

My grandson arrived into the world this year. We worried and stressed when doctors suggested he may have a disability with life long effects. Yet, with prayer and time, he was found to be whole and healthy. We rejoice in his perfection each day.

Another grandchild would not be so lucky, and in the first trimester lost its grip on life. This grandchild lives in our hearts if not our home. His sibling however, it strong and continues to grow, a blessing we anticipate in the coming year. The one who was lost taught us that life is fragile and precious and not to be taken for granted. We are ever mindful of this truth.

As the New Year approaches, along with the unknown, I am resolved to focus on what I want, not what I don’t want. Hold positive images in my mind, representing success. Leave the past behind, and focus on the future. Love family, and appreciate more, those who call me “friend.” In this way, like the old year, the New Year will take care of itself, and I will emerge at the other end, even more amazed and delighted at what has unfolded than even my own imagination could envision.

Be mindful of where your thoughts travel. Keep them focused on where you are going, not where you’ve been. Appreciate all that is good, and transform that which isn’t into something that is. You can do it! Anybody can. I wish many blessings to all of you in the coming year with a special thank you to my mentors. Life is better because of you, and I am blessed to call each one of you “friend.”