In the days before Christmas it's hard to think on the areas that I'm least grateful - but it's honest to air out what is challenging and encouraging in life. So here go's the raising of the yeast filled dough for this week:
Least grateful -
Loss: It is difficult for me one month (a little more) after the sudden passing of my friend, William, I realize how often my thoughts turn to our last few conversations. While I'm grateful for getting to meet and get to know him in 08' - I'm sad that all we had to spend together was July through November of 2008. Bill we all are missing you.
Change: Although it teaches me something new each new day, I'm frustrated that 08 has had so much of it. In fact the only consistent thing found in 08' was change. Change, change go away find someone else's place to stay...at least for a while please.
Most grateful -
This year I finished by B.A. program, read a ton of books, wrote and recorded my first album, had a poem publish in my friend Ian's book, trained for and ran in a 5k race, visited California for the first time, went to Pittsburgh three times, had an article published, started as a teaching artist in after school programs, and started ministry at a new church.
When I look back upon the personal progress in 08, I don't bemoan the element of change so much. But I'd be grateful for a pause before the pace of 09' begins. I suppose I'm thankful for the grace and understanding of those around me - even now as I try to live in health and balance. After all, love and understanding change everything.
Image found at Jessie Jacobs at USCD
Peace and Merry Christmas to all
Comments
Here's to wondrous things for you and yours in 09.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Years to you!
I'm glad that you can see the good, overall, in the changes you've experienced. I hope you get that chance to rest as '09 begins.
(P.S. I never received the CD... could it have gotten lost in the mail?)