The Promise of a New Decade

Yesterday as I was reflecting on the past year, I realized that this New Year's Eve was more that the end of a year. It's the end of a decade. With each year comes a brand new start. This year brings the promise of a new decade.

At this time of year many of us make resolutions that we can't keep, not understanding that real change is a process that takes time and patience. Every year I promise myself that I will eat healthier, exercise more, and lose a few pounds. This year my resolution has a completely different intention. This year I promise to be my authentic self. What does that mean? It means being real and unafraid to be who I am. It means giving up illusions, not giving up yourself to be liked and accepted by others, and loving and accepting yourself completely. You are exactly who and where you are supposed to be at this moment. I acknowledge that it's a concept that's not easy to embrace. It requires commitment, patience, and forgiveness of others and ourselves. None of us are or can be perfect. The key when we fail, or others fail us, is to pick up, forgive, and move forward. You will never be where you started, you will see how much you have grown over time, and all else will fall into place.

In this New Year I wish all of you peace, love, and happiness!