start wherever you are and start small.

Happy New Year! There is so much possibility in front of us. That is the beauty of a shiny new year...it still feels fresh and full of hope. It is the perfect time to look back at what has been and look forward to what could be. When it comes to looking back, the past year had some highs and lows. The lows? There were some changes to my family dynamic in the last few months of the year. Those have been difficult for me to accept, as I often struggle with change. There was intrusive construction work in my home. There was the loss of a beloved pet. There was disappointment and despair over what is happening on this planet. It was a lot. The highs? This year also had vacations, concerts, and time spent with people that I care about. There were threads of good woven through all of the fear and pain. I suppose that is just how life is...a little bit of good to help navigate the bad. 

Though not everyone enjoys resolutions or setting goals for the year ahead, it is something I always do. I like to start the new year off on the right foot by thinking about what I want to achieve and how I will take steps to make those things happen. Last year, there were several short-term and long-term goals that I set for myself. I achieved about half of the items on my list. Despite not checking off all the boxes, it makes me happy that some progress was made. Because that is what really matters: being intentional and trying to make some positive changes. I sincerely believe that I made some positive changes.

At this time last year, I wrote about what I wanted to see over the next twelve months. I wanted to learn more, journal, and speak my mind. I wanted to honour the words of my personal hero and live by her message: "My voice forever remains the most valuable asset I have." I wanted to see a 2024 where the focus was on justice, truth, and using our voices. Despite disappointments, setbacks, and the continued issues that are facing society...I have been encouraged seeing so many using their voices for good. I have been encouraged by those fighting back against injustice, cruelty, and misogyny. 

As I look ahead to 2025, my focus is on creativity and rebuilding. The last several years have essentially torn down who I was. Bit by bit, the person I used to be was taken away. The good I used to see in the world was tarnished. My faith in people was diminished. In truth, I have spent a lot of time desperately trying to become the person I used to be once more, but that person is gone. It is time for me to rebuild, knowing what I know now. It is also time for me to focus on more of my creative pursuits. My half finished novel remains neglected and in need of attention. I want to finish it so badly...I want so much for it to be good and meaningful...that I have become paralyzed with fear. Part of my rebuild means reestablishing belief in myself as a writer. Clearly, the year ahead is exciting and scary and wonderful. There is a lot that I want to accomplish. There is a lot that I want to become. Who knows? Maybe by this time next year, there will be all sorts of happy updates to share. Fingers crossed.

Happy New Year! What are your resolutions or hopes for the year ahead?