It's Been a Long Time...

It's been a long time since I last felt like putting thoughts into words. As this week has progressed and the holiday season has now officially begun, I look back on the past year and realized what an eventful year it's been. As we travel through day-to-day living, the things that shape us, both good and bad, tend to blend together. When we finally get the chance to slow down and reflect, it's amazing how resilient the human spirit is when tested.

This year personally has been one that has been fraught with challenges, that given the chance, I might have bypassed if I could. I suppose that's the point of life though. We aren't given the chance and when those challenges occur, we either rise to the occasion or sink under the weight of them. Whatever path is taken, our lives are shaped by our actions and reactions to what lies in our way or in what rewards we reap. It has always been so.

It seems however, that many amongst us in these times have not learned this lesson...have not developed the coping skills or backbone to find solutions or muscle themselves through to better times. It makes me sad and at the same time, makes me worry for the coming generations and for the struggles that are in store for them that they will have to find a way to solve.

So for now, I do what I can. I try to lead by example and instill the coping mechanisms in my children or in the lives I touch. I take care of my life and challenges and enjoy the many bright spots that happen as well. While the year has been long and full of winding paths, I'm hoping for a calming period for a while now where I can enjoy life and my family. I know that there will be twists and bumps, but also know that tomorrow is always another day full of something different. Some days will be worse, most will be better in some way, but different nonetheless.

Bring on the holidays. My wish and goal is to enjoy each day to the fullest and be glad to be alive to experience all there is around me. Nothing in life is guaranteed, so we get fresh opportunities with the dawning of each new day.

What else can we really ask for?