On the verge of a New Year

On December 30, 2007, I wrote the following. I have been trying so hard to find some inspiration to write an "updated" version of this piece, but it just isn't happening. So I thought, maybe, if I post the old version, lightning will strike! Here goes!
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So, here I sit, on the verge of another new year...and it is so different.

Too much has changed to comprehend the next year. Hell, too much has changed to comprehend the last year. Thinking back on the past 12 months makes me want to laugh and cry at the same time.

I've learned so much about life. About myself. About people.

You can't expect anything to change unless you are willing to change. Reaching that point can be painful...and it usually is...change is never easy. But it's worth it. I promise.

People really are the same, no matter where you go. It matters more how you treat them than anything else. Everyone you meet has something interesting to offer your life...and a good story to tell.

Patterns can be easily misconstrued as phases. But sometimes, it's not so bad to fall into a pattern. Just make sure you know why you follow it. It could lead somewhere amazing.

Let life happen. But be aware of it, and enjoy it. Know your options and be happy that you have options....lots of people don't.

Knowing you need help is hard. Asking for it is harder.

Find out what makes you really happy and go with it. This is a lot easier said than done, but it is the most liberating experience. Don't live your life for other people and don't let other people's actions determine your level of happiness.

September really does suck. And probably will for the rest of my life. I'm accepting it, and moving on. I'll just remember to wear a flack jacket and combat boots for 30 days when September 1st rolls around.

Jealousy is by far the ugliest emotion in the human psyche. It does strange things to people, and can cause the worst kind of ailments.

Walking away from old love can make you feel better than the love ever did.

Fulfilling a New Year's Resolution is awesome. Fulfilling more than one is utterly amazing. I suggest you try it sometime.

Most of all, and inclusively with the rest, be true to yourself. No one can live your life except you. No "what ifs" and no regrets. And no "what-might-have-beens."


"If you get a chance, take it. If it changes your life, let it. No one said it would be easy. They just promised it would be worth it."
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These words, written by my 23 year old self, never cease to amaze me. I enjoy re-reading them from time to time, mostly to remember my life 4-5 years ago. 2007 was a huge year for me, one that deserves to be celebrated and remembered. I would also like to clarify that the "walking away from an old love" part refers to my now-husband, Clint. With that being said, please take all of these words with a grain of salt.