The end of 2012 is here and I’m filled with nostalgia about
the past. For the last several months I’ve just been praying the year would
end. There has been too much pain and heartache this year and I want a clean
slate. A fresh start, if you will.
This year, this December in fact, my parents got divorced. I
watched my relationship with my father disintegrate. I began to see familial
relationships shift and morph into bonds I wish didn’t exist. However, through
all the pain and heartache I know this is the best decision that could be made
for my family.
I watched my love of being Riverside’s yearbook advisor
begin to alter. I want to teach other courses and I can’t take on new preps and
run a $60,000 business as well. I love yearbook and love the students that I
have the honor of working with each day, but I have to learn how to not take on
too much. I’m exercising that now.
But even these two big changes have happened this
year, a lot of wonderful things have happened. I went on a life-changing trip
to Kenya with some of my best friends for 10 days. I spent more time
cultivating my writing and artistic side. I finally got my tattoo. My old
friendships have strengthened and I’ve gotten the privilege of getting to add
some new friends to my life.
However, as I reflect on the year I realize that I don’t
want to erase this year. I don’t want to negate the past. A new year offers
hope but it’s just a continuation of the familiar trials, tribulations, and, as
the popular saying goes, life goes on. I know that the presence of 2013 won’t
wipe away the pain of 2012. But I do hope that 2013 can bring some relief and some
new adventures. I know I’ll be tested, stretched, and challenged and I can’t
wait to see how much I’ve changed this time next year. 2013, I’m ready to see
what’s in store.
