Slice of Life Tuesday...2013
Here it is the end of 2013, and what a year it's been. Like all years, it's been a mixture of good things and not so good things. It's certainly been a year of personal growth for me. I've learned the importance of saying no and giving myself permission to not be perfect at everything I try (or don't try because I won't be any good at it). I've learned to listen to myself and stand up for myself. I've welcomed being still and quieting the negative inner dialogue that often rears its ugly head. In retrospect, the challenges I faced this year helped me focus on what was working in my life and what wasn't. I worked on strengthening those things that work and letting go of the things that don't work so well. The changes I've made have all been good.
Linda Baie has the following quote in her blog:
Rainer Maria Rilke: "And now, we welcome the new year, full of things that have never been."
I find that I keep going back to it. Many changes await my family...some that I can plan for and others that will be totally unexpected. Our house is up for sale, which means that we will be living in a new place next year. It's a little scary and at the same time very exciting. All 3 kids will be in different places in their lives too, as they move to new jobs, first jobs, and new universities.
I used to fear the unknown. I don't anymore. I've come to realize just how resilient I am. I'm looking forward to the "things that have never been." There are so many possibilities that will bring opportunities for trying new things and learning more about myself.
I wish all of you a very happy and blessed New Year!
Thank you to Two Writing Teachers for hosting Slice of Life Tuesday. Please go to their blog to read other slices.
It sounds like you have had an amazing year of personal growth. You accomplished many things that are on my to do list. Thank you for sharing. You have inspired me. Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteJulie,
ReplyDeleteYour post reads like you've developed more confidence in listening to your heart and weigh the options that will work best for you! I'm sure 2014 will have its own set of ups and downsbut i hope it's more ups for you! Happy New Year!
I loved that quote when I saw it on Linda's blog, too! It seems to give off such a sweet mixture of poignancy and possibility, just like the New Year itself! Good luck to you with your changes!
ReplyDeleteJulie, thank you for the mention, but thanks more for loving the quote. It is a special one to me, and I'm glad it will bring the new year in to you well and perhaps magically! I know some of your ups and downs and hope 2014 will be smoother, a good but not so bumpy sled ride! Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteIsn't it great to look forward to new things? Yes, sometimes they can be scary, but like you said, "I've learned to listen to myself and stand up for myself. I've welcomed being still and quieting the negative inner dialogue that often rears its ugly head." Wishing you a New Year filled with new opportunities, and a new house that will be just the right one for you!
ReplyDeleteThis new year holds changes for our family too - I will hold onto your words - "I'm looking forward to the "things that have never been," and rejoice in the new. Happy 2014!
ReplyDeleteWe've had similar years, it seems, Julie. How marvelous that you learned hat you were more resilient than you gave yourself credit for. That's something to take into the new year, one full of new challenges and joys. Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteHey Julie, so glad we spent a hot summer together and continued way beyond that. Sounds like you are in a wonderful place to keep growing as you enter 2014. It will be nice to share it with you,
ReplyDeleteBonnie
A new house and kids in different places. Wow, Julie! There's a lot of change coming your way. I hope it's all good and that 2014 is filled with happiness for you.
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