A New Year

I have just finished reviewing 2008 and agree that 'not much' when written down is actually 'enough'. Cutting back or cutting out some activities gave me space to try new things and to meet new people. A great way to broaden life. University went well and I loved the mental challenges, looking at life and situations from another perspective. Possibilities pop up as you meet new people all having a different focus on the same topic. Then come the surprises like being asked back to teach in 2009 because of the value you added to children's learning and the number of people disappointed at not being able to get into your previous courses. Reassuring that all the physical effort is worth it. The difficulty experienced in separating from past passions is rewarded as it has allowed new ones to emerge. They say one door closes and another opens...so true and you don't know what until you have taken the step. What has happened on the health front? That saga still continues, it seems, like America, we have an illness policy rather than a health one and we all need to know more about illness and treatments than the GP in order to get help. You are rewarded for taking care of your health by not being eligible for services or help to obtain valuable supplements.

Now looking at the next stage of this reflection, which is, to decide what things haven't worked. This has definitely got to be the body, however the body has continued to give service even if it has seized up a lot towards the end of this year. (more on the fix program later) What things have past their 'use by' dates, I think the place we are living in could do with a change. So could my temper and frustration at not getting the help and support I need. The trick here is learning who to ask and what level of support you need. Tricky when you don't know either nor are you aware of what is available. Negative thoughts must definitely leave. But there is not much I will walk (ha ha) away from in 2009 more what I will walk to.

Something interesting or rather reflective that has happened over the last few days is, a friend of Alix's has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. At only early 20's, they have been given less than a year to live. Makes you somewhat reflective when we discuss how you would spend it. Make your own memories or memories for others. We thought memories for others rather than self, although catching up with those people you haven't seen for a long while and possibly many miles away, could rate here. Very hard to deal with when your life is just beginning and there are so many possibilities, maybe that's what to do at this time of year, look at things like it is your last. What would you change? What would you keep? What would you get rid of?

I am off to finish my journal and think a bit more about changes and additions for the year year ahead. Hope you all had a great and restful holiday time. I would love to hear your comments or feedback. Take care till next time.