Each year the days leading up to my birthday are typically spent in reflection—setting new challenges/goals, reassessing the progress of previous ones, and just an overall soul check-in. If I like what I see then it just requires minor course-corrections here and there but if I don’t like what I see then the changes required are more radical.
At fifty-three, life took a ninety degree turn. A new house on the outskirts, back to homeownership, a chapter I thought I’d closed in 2015. Since leaving the city last November, my life has quieted down in more ways than one. I’ve eased into a steady daily rhythm, with writing flowing naturally. It’s not all been smooth sailing, but the good has outweighed the bad.
What more can a person ask for in life?
Here at the cusp of fifty-four, it feels like this will be a year of even greater transition. I see old friendships fading away into the realm of memory, new ones forming. Global travel is once again on my mind, as well as new and different dreams.
I know I’ve been saying this for the last few years but I really think this is the year I’ll start building my YouTube channel. I want to apply my love of storytelling and creativity in other ways and can think of no better way than attempting to master this art form. The thought of doing this motivates me in ways that writing books no longer does. I’ll be sharing more about this soon. : )
My next trip around the sun will consist of lots of inspiring nature walks…
Volunteering. Me and ten other neighbors helped to spread twelve yards of black dirt in the neighborhood yesterday. I've led a extremely blessed life and now it's time to spend more time and energy giving back.
Sharpening my culinary skills. This is actually my first birthday present this year from my wonderful sister-in-law. This book will be an excellent first step (thanks Lilli!)
Travel. Nothing excites me as much as experiencing new cultures. We have so much of the world left to see and there's no time like the present to collect more stamps in the old passport.
Spending more time with family and friends. At around that half-century mark you begin to really understand how fast time is ticking away. Sometimes it seems the world puts up every road block it can to prevent you from spending time with the people you love but this next year I'll be hurdling those road blocks.
Last, but not least....
Working on me. It's important to remember that we're all works in progress. I’ll keep trying to become the best, healthiest, and happiest version of myself I can possibly be. It's still my belief that this is the best gift you can give to both yourself and to the world.
All for now. Thanks for reading.
