Tuesday, January 1, 2019

The Springlike Emergence Of A New Year

The start of a new year is always a time for reflection. Pondering the triumphant and not so triumphant moments of years past is a practice of many people around the world.  Reminiscing with friends and loved ones, or quietly contemplating alone happens regardless of who we are or what lives we lead.

2018 has proved to be a tumultuous year in a variety of areas. From politics to social agendas to weather anomalies, the year that Mother Nature seemed to join forces with politicians in a death defying spiral of terror, unrest, and social dismay on every front. Yet, through the darkness there were definitive glimmers of hope, peace, and happiness. Like an olive branch emerging from the swirling waters of a stormy sea, stories of communities coming together, strangers crossing the barriers of religion and rhetoric to assist others in need, and small acts of random kindness throughout the world prove that humanity and empathy are alive and well, despite the constant barrage of news that seems to prove the opposite.

One of my favorite Zen-like quotes is "Even through the heavy snow, we can see signs of snowdrops and new growth." It's true. Regardless of how bleak the world sometimes appears, there are constantly moments of caring, positivity and humanity happening everywhere.

2019 has the potential to be amazing, if only we actively make it that way. So as we contemplate the moments of years past, let's all remember to also focus on how we can take those moments, learn their lessons, and bring them forward into a new year full of fresh opportunities for that proverbial new growth.

Happy New Year, Everyone!


~ The Girl In The Little Black Dress

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