One word.
How many things in our life do we describe with just a single word. Not a phrase, or a sentence, or even a full-fledged paragraph. A word. Just one.
This year was many different things. 2012 felt like a roller-coaster most of the time. Sheer panic and fear, but also extreme joy and peace. Confusion and hurt, excitement and love. So many different emotions characterize these past 12 months for me. I've tried, but I can't boil it all down into a single word.
But I am blessed and thankful for each twist and turn that brought me here. I don't know what 2013 holds, but I do know that it will have its own set of challenges and triumphs. It may bring me back to New York for a time, or maybe I'll stay in Virginia for a while. I could even be in another country for a while. Who knows. But it is another year to work harder, try new things, and aim higher. It holds 12 months of life experiences I cannot even anticipate. I'm nervous, but way more excited.
There are a lot of lessons in life. We just need to pay attention. I hope I take more chances than I let opportunities pass me by. I hope I love more than I thought I was capable of. I hope I get inspired. I hope to be a better person. I don't make resolutions, but I do hope I can make changes. I hope I go the extra mile to care about people. I hope I have more patience, and am more gracious. I hope I judge less, and pray more. I hope I give more of myself, and expect less in return. I want to appreciate every day, not taking the minutes and the moments with the people I care about for granted.
Tomorrow is never guaranteed and the future is so uncertain. If there's anything I've learned in 2012 that I hope to carry over to 2013 with me, is that people are so precious, and time with loved ones should be treasured.
To sum up 2012 in one word... Promise.
Nothing is set in stone.
But I especially hope that in 2013, my promises become immovable. To be strong enough to speak up when necessary, and to be silent when it's appropriate.
Love life.
Live fully.
Embrace every day.
Never settle for less than your best.
