Reflecting on 2008

I've been thinking a lot recently about 2008 and all it has been. Wow. Personally, financially, politically, etc....it's been an interesting 361 days so far...woah!

I often would like to make a bigger deal out of the passing of a year, but I rarely do. I feel that New Year's Eve is an important night, but mostly because it's a fun night to party with friends and family. But deep down there is a deeper significance for me...I can't help but want to take time to reflect on the past year in order to better appreciate and learn from 2008.

So, I've been spending a little time doing just that. I've been thinking and writing and remembering just how amazing this past year has been. ...and the process has been sweet. Though I have regrets, as we all do, the things that stand out to me are the blessings. Every moment, every day is an experience to be cherished and I can't say how thankful I am for every moment and points of learning I've had this year. And what's better? It doesn't cost me anything to maintain them...no one can steal them from me....and thanks to imagination, I can go back to those moments whenever I please! wow....

Ok, I tend to get a tad cheesy about this stuff....but I don't care. 2008 has been a year of learning for me, and I'd like to carry the lessons of "living in the moment" and "don't hold back appreciation" into the new year. Maybe soon I'll make a more comprehensive list of some of the lessons of 2008 for further written reflection.

Anyway, I'm glad to be making more of a process out of this transition into the New Year. I want to be mindful and intentional about this next year....and perhaps this is a good method for me.

Hi, my new name is Joy. What's your name?

"I came here with a load, but I feel so much lighter since I met you."

I love Coldplay. They definitely make the list of bands whose songs bring me to the deeper end of my thoughts.

It's been awhile since my last post. It's been a dark autumn. I've been walking a rocky road of health, emotions, and work, but I feel as though the path is becoming a bit smoother.

I'm working on experiencing/appreciating/looking for joy in my life, especially this week. It's been going well. I'm finding joy again in places I thought were empty of it, and that's encouraging.

Maybe I will write more of this adventure soon. Joy is always a good subject to write about, especially with all of the published topics which are filled with the opposite of joy, and of course it will help me in my attempt to use words to build up and not to tear down.