Why, one might ask. The past is gone and to 'look forward' in the future; how could this be of help? This might be one way to view it in our thinking. Nonetheless, there could be 'value' in doing so. As we reflect on our experiences in 2016, the 'hard times' as well as the 'good times'; we can see 'life lessons' to help us grow in so many ways for our continual journey for ourselves and to help others.
Taking 'time' to 'listen' and to be 'silent' truly takes 'time' and 'discipline'.
As I reflect on some of my experiences in 2016, I see challenges that turned to blessings for me and, hopefully, for others. And, I experienced many 'good times' and I am very grateful. I feel that I have learned from both.
All of us are here striving to reach a 'goal' we have chosen to live out our life even if it isn't evident in an 'outward and/or conscious way'. We are 'all' 'living' so life is happening. We have a measure of control in how we choose to live out our life more then it might sometimes seem. No, we can't control every minute of our day and how 'others' act out nor the life expectancy of ourselves or another. However, we can act in ways that are helpful and constructive in opening up possibilities for a brighter, better future for our ourselves and in turn others. No, we aren't all on the same path because 'all' of us have been given 'a free Will' to choose what 'way of life' we wish. Depending on what 'free will' choices we have made, they will affect our beliefs, actions, challenges, responsibilities and blessings that come our way.
Nonetheless, 'nothing' will change in one's growth, as a person, in their life and living without; 'each individual taking 'responsibility' and 'action' in one's 'own life and living'. Nobody can make us 'happy'. Nobody can 'fix' things for us to have an easy ride in life. Perhaps, for awhile and yes, people do affect how we feel at times. However; 'the good life' will not last if/when somebody 'hands' us material things. Plus, when we are given 'no responsibilities' to 'take ownership' for 'our own actions' that will allow us to grow into a mature individual. 'Tough Love' is priceless.
Nobody is exempt from 'challenges in life'. The 'aging process' will come to every human being if they possess longevity. The acceptance, in this fact, can open up so many 'good things' as they are reflected upon and, therefore, enjoyed. Most 'grandparents' are elderly. What 'joy' this is to experience as one ages into this particular generation. There are always things we 'enjoy' and things we 'dread' in any generation we find ourselves in. 'Honor the space between no longer and not yet'......written by a Nancy Levin.
The value in looking back to where we have been and looking forward to where we will go can be priceless, as well. We can reap many valuable 'resources' from our challenges and from the joyous times we have experienced in 2016. As we look forward in to the New Year of 2017, we can bring hope, promise and perseverance to give us joy with a positive attitude in our tomorrows.
Everybody has a 'story of their own'. Nobody truly knows 'another's story' or has a right to tell it as 'they might see it'. Nonetheless, nobody is exempt of heartache of many colors. Plus, everybody has something to be 'thankful' for', everybody. There are so many beautiful things to be 'thankful for' every single day. Sometimes it is better to be kind than to be right. We do not need an intelligent mind that speaks. We do need a patient heart that listens.
Yes, we all have choices that we 'alone' can make if we so choose. It is up to 'each person' to move forward to a brighter future. It doesn't matter what we have experienced in our past nor what we will experience in our future; we have the choice to 'help ourselves' to a better life for ourselves and others. We have the choice to 'move forward' stronger with perseverance and joy as we grow from our past experiences. This can be our mission and a desire of 'mature individuals' to be an example of hope and love. Yes, even through our challenges that for some unknown reason might have come our way. There is a reason bigger then ourselves and everybody will have a richer fuller life when it is realized. Let it be in 2017.
As we close out this year of 2016 and look forward to the coming year of 2017, how in the world can it do anything but help to realize the blessings that we have received in 2016? Let us 'give thanks' and look forward with 'hope, believing in a higher power' then ourselves with promise going forward into 2017?
Wishing everyone a Happy New Year in 2017.
Until next time,
God Bless
Doris
