A 'Few Brief Awkward Lines' on 2011

Thinking back on 2011 has me feeling a multitude of things--ranging from complete happiness to a few rounds of sadness to just simple gratefulness in being around. I haven't been putting much stock into writing lately, but it doesn't necessarily mean that I've fully given up on that dream. It makes me consider the idea that we don't always have it within us to do the things we wish and dream at the time we want to; moreso it's something to attain, to achieve. Merely being around and hoping for something won't get us any closer to fulfilling the desire, but then trying to push for something over and over again isn't always the best course of action. For me, that sentiment applies not only to the writing bit but also to my life in itself. Being lax is foolish, but trying too hard and being disappointed with the lack is sometimes the very thing that creates our undoing. That may sound too 'on the fence', but it's becoming an element of truth these days.

So--2011. Bad. Good. Both. Personally, it's been a year of renewal(though every year in its fashion tends to be...this year was completely apparent in that.). I've been grateful for good friends and family, and for the ability to work and find some sense of stability. I've been blessed with the time to feel my age---an odd statement to make for one who has shunned the idea of getting older for so many years..but really--whether it's been good luck/fortunate circumstance/the kindness of those close to me/being watched over by a higher power or the combinations of all, it's been a year for personal growth and change. If 2011 has taught me little else, it is this... Change can be beautiful.

And with this, I set forth my hopeful 2012 resolutions:

1. Write more, even if it seems like complete hooey. You can't capture lightning by staying indoors. Have to get out in it and not be afraid to get..struck..now and then.

1 1/2. Taking Res. 1 a step further-- Don't neglect the talent given to you. Don't verbally poo-poo the things you do best/things you love because you're not currently doing them. You know who you are. Be that. Nothing else matters more.

2. Don't be afraid to update your thinking on quite a few things-- This year has been a year for changes, subtle though most have been. Change can be so helpful, planning doesn't have to be shunned. Spontaneity is lovely and exciting, but knowing the direction give us purpose.

3. Try to love/feel more..and show it more often. Closing yourself off fully negates resolutions 1 and 2.

4. Maintain/further build financial stability. It's been getting better, and with further self control, it could well be great.

And lastly, rediscover the passion for the things you love. Resolution 1 is definitely a part of that, but there are other things--things that make me who I am. Theatre. Music. Lists. And this blog..once.

Have a great year, readers. I'm going to give it a shot too-