smile. back to the start.

Sweet sentimental times of packed streets, bordered houses, and glistening decorations that fill offices, schools, and everything in between. It's the time of Christmas, and for some slightly cynical scrooge-like citizens, we hate it. For what it brings, ill-mannered children, transparent joy, and the sudden urge to show your love, with a pricetag attached. What most people forget is the holidays bring people together, and that that is more precious than people will choose to acknowledge. Perhaps the best gift of all we can give ourselves is to look back on how far we've come since last Christmas.. and discover the change we've made. We're new people, new situations, and maybe for some, new settings. There's new people in our lives, and new experiences which include the perfect and imperfect ones, but looking back and realizing those experiences have shaped us into who we are today should give us optimism that next year, like the timeless songs "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas", your troubles next year will be miles away.
With the dying pain of a broken heart and broken trust, I start anew once again. This time, ready to forgive those who wronged me and instead of holding grudges, look forward. And while for some, the best option seems to make plans to take a step back into familiar territory, those strong enough can find the strength to make due and make plans to step forward. Jump.

As the year of 2009 comes quickly to a close, I look back thinking of all the good this year brought. I recovered from loss, moved myself forward and fell a few times, but never gave up. I found a new self. success, money, and work. I found love.

So what the next year brings remains unknown, however, it's comforting that if all of what I have found this year can be refound again. This time even better than before. Taking the dive again. Here's to the future.