2024, Goodbye. You were not the greatest of years. It was tough for a lot of people. Economically, politically, and for me personally… I am just glad it is over. I had much that I wanted to do in 24 but I just fell short.  Some years will be like that, they cannot all be great.  I came into 24 with such hope and optimism and then life happened.  My plans took a back seat to everything.  I had some wins last year but overall, it was a stagnant year.  I lost my mom last year, then I lost motivation. My concentration failed me.  I was not 100% myself last year but I’m gaining back me little by little.  I think I’m getting back into my stride.  I’m remembering who I am and most importantly who I want to be.  I feel hopeful for the new year.  

So, hello 2025, the year of the snake in the Chinese zodiac, a year of “transformation and spiritual growth”.  I guess we will see.  It is also said to be the year of romance and relationships, at least according to Google.  I almost laugh to myself while reading it; that would be a change, since being single has become my new comfort zone.  Transformation, romance, fortune, aren’t these the things that everyone wants every year about this time?  I don’t wish to be cynical and say it can’t happen with each new passing year.  I am a firm believer that each day is a new opportunity to do whatever you wish. I understand that new year beginnings can spark inspiration to start something different but technically so can any other time of the year.

Tough years can bring about valuable life lessons if you are willing to learn from them. The most personal growth can be gained when things don’t go as planned. When the unexpected changes your world vision, you are forced to observe life from a different point of view. It can be challenging, frustrating, and sad, but it can also be eye opening and motivating to put fears aside. We are all here for a moment in life, with each passing year opportunities can also pass us by.  I hope to learn from last year and move forward into 2025 with renewed hope and motivation. Life will not always be what you expect, some years will be worse, some will be exceedingly better, being an adult means figuring out how to navigate the tides of life.  With effort, we are all capable.

My hope for 2025 is what it is every year, that we all find the strength to be who we want to be in the new year.  That we hold on to positivity and let go of fear.  That we all remember that life is fleeting, and the time is now to make the changes that we have always wanted to make. Waking up and realizing that we are our greatest obstacle, which is wonderful news because we are also in control.

I hope 2025 is also the year of dreams and the courage to make them a reality.