Monday, January 1, 2018

Dear 2018

Dear 2018,

Welcome!

I don't think I have ever wanted to see a year end as much as I did 2017.

2017, you were full of yourself.

 Full of challenges, health issues, loss and heartbreak.

 2017, while we are still on speaking terms I want you to know I've come to appreciate the lessons you taught.

"There are years that ask questions and years that answer"~ Zora Neale Hurston

2017, you left me asking a lot of questions. Mostly the Why questions as many people do when misfortune arrives (totally uninvited) in their lives.

It's not a useless question, it's just that they don't matter. That's when you shake hands with acceptance. It's fertile ground where you learn new strategies for living in a world that continues to move on in spite of your loss.

2017, the most beautiful lesson I learned living with you for the past year was personally experiencing the Lord's grand exchange of "beauty for ashes."

It's a real thing.

When you scoop up the rubble and ashes of your life and hand them over to the God of the Universe, He takes the ashes~ and in exchange, He presents you with the making of an exquisite bouquet.  One stem at a time. It's as humbling and heartwarming as a child who presents you with a dandelion "picked just for you!"

My bouquet is getting quite full now.

My vessel doesn't feel so empty.

It's quite an artistic arrangement! Build from the sacred work of loving family members, friends and co-workers who echoed and reminded me of God's love and care.

Thanks for that 2017.

2018, don't think you are getting off easy just because 2017 is such an easy act to follow!

I do have certain expectations of you.



We can  work together.

Lets see what beauty we can create.

"And now let us welcome the New Year full of things that have never been."