Happy New Year

The final hours of 2008 are ticking away, taking no notice of our belief that these hours are somehow different from others – that we see them as symbolic of endings and beginnings and such.  And even those of us who pretend not to care, we’re aware – and we are making some kind of accounting in our heads or hearts.

Last night I was up into the wee hours of the night enjoying the company of a dear friend.  Today, I was tired, but happy, and it was yet another full day of meetings with others on a variety of different projects that I’m working on.  As darkness fell and the lights of the city began to sparkle below me, I headed out to have dinner with some friends – and we ate Chinese food and chatted and laughed and parted with plans to get together again soon – all too often we believe ourselves too busy to enjoy time together.  We decided that should change.

Coming home, I thought about endings and beginnings, hopes and desires.  I looked back over the past year, and like Jovah in the bible, I decided that it was good.  Very good, in fact.  In the past year I left Dillon and returned to Butte, left a job where I was deeply unhappy and unfulfilled and began a master’s program where I am excited about each new project, I have a great part time job that is entirely stress free, I have my work with the arts foundation, I have interesting freelance jobs that pop up unexpectedly when I most need them, I am developing some wonderful friendships with women in my community, and, from time to time, enjoy the company of my dear friend.

The past year was one of great contrast – and it allowed me to clarify what I truly want for myself – what’s important – what I love … in myself … and in the world around me.  I am proud of myself.  I’m proud of the risks that I’ve been willing to take in order to create a satisfying life – and I’m proud of the work that I’m willling to do to make it happen.

So … along with this lovely angel – I offer a toast to all – prospero año y felicidad…