Hello 2012

Happy New Year to one and all.  I wish everyone an amazing 2012 full of joy and realized dreams!!!

I know many of us have sat and pondered over another year that has yet again flown by.  We have reached some goals and even made some strides in our lives to be successful and truly happy.  We also have had heartbreak, let downs and disappointments. 

For me, last year most definitely had its ups and downs.  I had some great accomplishments, learned more about myself, let myself down, broke promises that I made to myself and laughed and cried along the way.  I had some career wins that are about to open up some new doors for me.  I was able to watch my beautiful niece grow up another year, watching her experience new things, see how incredibly intelligent she is for such a little girl and build the bond with her that I moved back here to build.

Once we reflect on the year behind us, we can then focus on the year ahead.  We have another 365 days to make things happen, be happy and do the things in life that we have want to do. 
I know the areas where I succeeded and failed in.  I know what worked, what didn't and what deserves another shot.  It's all about second chances, knowing where you can test the waters again on something perhaps or going back to the drawing board to start over. 

My hope is that 2012 will be a year that gives me more joy and happiness then grief and disappointment.  Sadly, no one comes with a manual written about their life.  So we are put to the test.  We are challenged everyday with making the right choice, going here and there.  Hoping that the decisions we make will guide us to the outcome we desire. 

I've already made some decisions for the year ahead.  I have started to lay down a path to new roads and of course new obstacles that I will have to hurdle over to get to the path that I want to take.  I am up for the challenge.  I am excited to take on a new journey.  I think when areas of your life become clear, that allows some of the fogginess to lift and you can see just a little bit farther down the line.  You obviously can't see the whole road, but little by little, things make sense and with each clear step you take, it gives you solid footing.  That confidence and comfort helps you in the times where you may question yourself.  Do I go left or right?  Do I take a step back or do I keep going straight ahead?  You go on faith, believing that you are making the best choice for yourself in that moment.

There is always talk about New Years resolutions.  Some people make them, others don't feel the need to put any expectations on themselves.  I have usually been one to make a resolution and never stick to it.  Most years, it had to do with losing weight, getting healthy, being happy.  This year, I have resolved myself to this....

One can’t flourish and grow with negativity and hatred surrounding them. Time to stop accepting blame others put on me. I will not carry someone elses burdens on my shoulders, allowing it to overpower me. I will no longer accept the false judgements anymore. I will not accept the excuses of others’ lack of respect towards me. Because I deserve more! 

Time to kick some ass and start taking names.  Like my Lady O and Ms Maya say, 'When you know better, you do better'.  I do know better this year and I am going to strive to do better.  I am going to strive for greatness because I have that within me.  I have that strength inside of me.  The power of being a survivor is a magnificent thing and I don't want to squander that anymore.

So here is to 2012 being everything that we want it to be and more.  I wish you blessings and happiness!!!

Much love,

Misty
xo